Magnesium

Rational

Background
Although magnesium itself was discovered about 100 years ago, it's application was limited due to its weak corrosion resistance and high cost. But, recently the material has been rediscovered thanks to the development of the corrosion resistant alloys and the price drop of the raw material produced in various cities including China.

Trends

Traditionally, magnesium has been used mainly in automotive and aerospace industries for mechanical and structural applications due to its unique features and properties over other existing metals and alloys; including light weight, superior weight-to-strength ratio, impact and dent resistance, dimensional stability, excellent damping capacity as well as machine-ability. The introduction of the world’s first magnesium chair in 2001 has also lead to many new applications in industries other than automotive and aerospace. Designed by Ross Lovegrove, the Go Chair emulates a fluid and futuristic style, ‘defining elegant yet functional high-tech seating that takes an anatomical approach’.



Light-weight application has become a growing worldwide trend. Magnesium has become an increasing choice due to its light weight (it is two third the weight of aluminum). This has led to its application in products such as electronic housings, eyeglass frames etc.

New Technologies & Manufacturing Processes
Thixomolding, an emerging manufacturing process similar to injection molding allows magnesium to achieve higher precision than existing casting and forging methods. It is a cost effective process that produces more complex shaped components with a thin wall, high density and high dimensional accuracy. Existing products that utilized this manufacturing process include eyeglass frames and PDA covers.

Finishing technologies include magnesium electroplating to achieve bright/dark chrome and satin appearances. Magnesium can also by powder coated with different colours. These finishing and manufacturing processes can be used to enhance the sensual qualities of magnesium while also retaining its physical properties.