Exploring the concept of castability in magnesium die-casting alloys

Abstract

This paper provides a summary of the recent work completed and history of the measure of manufacturability in the magnesium die-casting industry. The most popular die-casting alloys utilized in this industry are based on the Mg–Al system, including AZ91, AM60 and AM50. These are well-established alloys, and are generally considered to be highly castable. However, the concept of castability in magnesium die-casting is not a well-defined characteristic or quantitative material property. As a result, the author investigates the subject of castability for magnesium die-cast alloys and how it relates to the development of alloys for innovative applications or improved properties. This paper provides a summary of some key findings in literature on the castability of magnesium die-cast alloys, how castability is defined and evaluated, the impact of different alloying elements on the castability of magnesium alloys, and suggestions for future work.