Thixomolded AM50A Magnesium，UNS M10500; ASTM B 94; European EN 1753 MC21220 (Ingot UNS M10501),E FOUR

### **Product Datasheet: Thixomolded® AM50A Magnesium Alloy** **Introduction** Thixomolded® AM50A is a semi-solid molding variant of the standard AM50A magnesium alloy, processed using the Thixomolding® technology. This innovative manufacturing method combines elements of die casting and injection molding to produce components with superior microstructural characteristics. The thixotropic processing results in fine, spherical microstructures that enhance mechanical properties and reduce porosity compared to conventional die casting. **Key Characteristics** - **Fine, Spherical Microstructure**: Enhanced mechanical properties due to non-dendritic structure - **Reduced Porosity**: Improved pressure tightness and structural integrity - **Excellent Surface Finish**: As-molded surface quality superior to conventional casting - **Enhanced Dimensional Accuracy**: Tight tolerances and minimal machining requirements - **Improved Consistency**: Uniform properties throughout the component --- #### **1. Chemical Composition (Weight %)** Composition per ASTM B94, EN 1753 MC21220, and UNS M10500/M10501: | Element | Content (%) | |---------|-------------| | **Aluminum (Al)** | 4.5 - 5.3 | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 0.28 - 0.50 | | **Zinc (Zn)** | ≤ 0.20 | | **Silicon (Si)** | ≤ 0.08 | | **Copper (Cu)** | ≤ 0.008 | | **Iron (Fe)** | ≤ 0.004 | | **Nickel (Ni)** | ≤ 0.001 | | **Other Elements** | ≤ 0.30 (total) | | **Magnesium (Mg)** | Remainder | --- #### **2. Physical Properties** | Property | Value | |----------|--------| | **Density** | 1.77 g/cm³ (0.064 lb/in³) | | **Solidus Temperature** | 543°C (1010°F) | | **Liquidus Temperature** | 620°C (1148°F) | | **Thixomolding Temperature** | 575 - 590°C (1067 - 1094°F) | | **Thermal Conductivity** | 65 W/m·K | | **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion** | 26.0 µm/m·K (20-100°C) | | **Modulus of Elasticity** | 45 GPa (6.5 × 10⁶ psi) | --- #### **3. Mechanical Properties (Thixomolded Condition)** **Room Temperature Properties:** | Property | Value | |----------|--------| | **Tensile Strength, Ultimate** | 230 - 260 MPa (33,400 - 37,700 psi) | | **Tensile Strength, Yield (0.2% Offset)** | 120 - 140 MPa (17,400 - 20,300 psi) | | **Elongation** | 10 - 18% (in 2 inches) | | **Hardness, Brinell** | 60 - 70 HB | | **Fatigue Strength** | 100 - 120 MPa (14,500 - 17,400 psi) | | **Impact Strength (Charpy)** | 6 - 9 J (4.4 - 6.6 ft-lb) | **Enhanced Characteristics vs. Die Casting:** - 10-15% higher tensile strength - 15-25% improved elongation - 20-30% better fatigue performance - Reduced porosity (<1% typical) --- #### **4. International Standards** **Primary Standards:** - **ASTM**: **B94** - Standard Specification for Magnesium-Alloy Die Castings (Applies to thixomolded parts) - **European**: **EN 1753 MC21220** - Magnesium alloy ingots and castings - **UNS**: **M10500** (Components), **M10501** (Ingot) **Thixomolding-Specific Standards:** - **ISO**: **ISO 16220** - Magnesium and magnesium alloys - **SAE**: **J465** - Wrought and Cast Magnesium Alloys - **Japanese Standards**: **JIS H 2221** (Modified for semi-solid processes) --- #### **5. Product Applications** **Automotive Applications:** - **Steering column components** - **Seat frame parts** - **Instrument panel brackets** - **Pedal support assemblies** - **Transmission components** - **Engine brackets** **Electronics & Consumer:** - **Laptop computer cases** - **Camera body frames** - **Mobile device housings** - **Power tool housings** **Aerospace & Defense:** - **Avionics enclosures** - **Military communication devices** - **Optical instrument frames** **Medical Applications:** - **Portable medical device housings** - **Surgical instrument frames** - **Diagnostic equipment components** --- #### **6. Thixomolding® Process Characteristics** **Process Parameters:** - **Material Form**: Magnesium alloy chips/pellets - **Barrel Temperature**: 575-590°C (1067-1094°F) - **Injection Pressure**: 50-100 MPa - **Screw Speed**: 50-200 rpm - **Solid Fraction**: 40-60% during injection **Manufacturing Advantages:** - Near-net-shape capability - Reduced machining requirements - Excellent dimensional repeatability - Lower porosity than die casting - Fine, uniform microstructure - Reduced solidification shrinkage --- #### **7. Quality & Performance Features** **Microstructural Advantages:** - Spherical alpha-Mg grains (20-50 μm) - Fine beta-phase (Mg₁₇Al₁₂) distribution - Reduced segregation and banding - Homogeneous properties throughout section thickness **Performance Benefits:** - Improved pressure tightness - Enhanced dynamic load capability - Better fatigue resistance - Superior impact strength - Good corrosion resistance (with proper coating) --- #### **8. Design Considerations** **Wall Thickness Capability:** - Minimum wall: 1.0 mm - Typical range: 1.5-4.0 mm - Uniform wall distribution recommended **Dimensional Capabilities:** - Tight tolerances: ±0.002 mm/mm - Good surface finish: 1-2 μm Ra - Minimal draft angles: 0.5-1.0° **Secondary Operations:** - Minimal machining required - Excellent for CNC machining - Good adhesion for coatings - Compatible with all standard Mg finishes --- **Technical Notes:** 1. Thixomolded AM50A offers mechanical properties between conventional casting and forging 2. Ideal for thin-walled, complex geometries requiring high integrity 3. Suitable for safety-critical applications due to consistent properties 4. Environmentally friendly process (SF₆-free) 5. Rapid cycle times comparable to injection molding **Disclaimer:** This information describes Thixomolded® AM50A characteristics. Properties may vary based on part design, processing parameters, and wall thickness. Thixomolding® is a proprietary process of Thixomat Inc. Users should conduct application-specific testing and consult current material specifications for design and manufacturing requirements.

Packing of Standard Packing: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 3277 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.