Magnesium vs. Plastics: A Comparison for Structural Components

Magnesium die casting alloys have the mechanical properties of metals, yet are lightweight like plastics and offer the designer a wide variety of applications. Plastics have previously been considered the most cost effective material for components that have limited mechanical requirements. Also, plastics' past history of being lightweight and easy to manufacture has made them attractive. However, in many instances, using magnesium instead of plastics offers a less expensive part that is much stronger, stiffer, just as lightweight and often easier to manufacture.