AM-lite & AM-HP2 - New Magnesium Alloys Offer New Opportunities

Two new magnesium die casting alloys, AM-lite and AM-HP2, have been developed which address issues related to magnesium applications. AM-lite offers considerable advantages over the existing general purpose die-casting alloy AZ91D. AM-lite has superior diecastability, significantly improved as-cast surface quality, superior surface definition, and is highly suitable for decorative surface finishing processes including electroplated in a process that is similar to zinc. AM-HP2 is a new creep resistant alloy that provides a combination of good diecastability and creep resistance at temperatures of relevance to powertrain applications.