The Magnesium alloy powder AZ91 is a magnesium-aluminium-zinc alloy with a Particle size of 10–45 µm. The alloy combines low density with good mechanical properties and is of interest for the development of lightweight components as well as for selected additive manufacturing processes.
AZ91 complements our range of Magnesium powder and magnesium alloys for industrial applications. When selecting the appropriate powder grade, factors such as particle size, the manufacturing process, the equipment used and the required component properties are all crucial.
Technical features and advantages
- Grain size: 10–45 µm as a basis for optimising the process for the specific manufacturing process.
- Material type: AZ91 magnesium-based alloy, with aluminium and zinc as the main alloying elements.
- Potential for lightweight construction: Low density for weight-optimised component designs.
- Mechanical properties: A strength-to-weight ratio that is of interest for lightweight construction applications.
- Processing: Potential applications in selected additive manufacturing and powder metallurgy processes, subject to the powder and process requirements being met.
The properties of the finished component are determined by the interplay between powder quality, process control and post-treatment. Choosing the right material lays the foundation for reproducible manufacturing results.
Applications of AZ91 magnesium alloy powder
Additive manufacturing and 3D printing
AZ91 is used for the additive manufacturing using metal powders examined and processed. The technology opens up possibilities for complex geometries, prototypes and weight-optimised components. Whether the available particle size range of 10–45 µm is suitable for your process is assessed on the basis of the equipment requirements and the desired component quality.
The automotive industry and lightweight construction
In the Automotive industry Magnesium alloys such as AZ91 are of interest for reducing the weight of housings and other components. AZ91 is well established as a casting alloy; when used in powder form, the requirements of the respective powder-based manufacturing process take precedence.
Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Development
In the Machine and tool construction Reducing moving masses can help to develop more efficient designs. AZ91 powder offers an approach for lightweight construction projects in which component geometry, mechanical loads and manufacturing processes are considered together.
Corrosion behaviour and component properties
The corrosion behaviour of AZ91 depends, amongst other things, on the material purity, the component microstructure, the surface treatment and the operating environment. A design tailored to the application and suitable surface protection can help to improve the conditions for long-lasting components.
Strength and load-bearing capacity must also be assessed in relation to the as-manufactured condition. For this reason, the required properties should be specified at the stage of selecting the magnesium alloy powder.
Choice of materials and efficient processing
A tailored powder quality supports the targeted development and optimisation of manufacturing processes. Magnesium alloys are, in principle, recyclable. How efficiently material can be used and recycled depends on the process and the organisation’s material cycles.
Are you comparing different magnesium alloys? Our Technical article on WE43 and how it differs from AZ91 provides an initial guide to selecting materials. You can find further materials in our overview of Metal powder for additive manufacturing.
Enquire about AZ91 magnesium alloy powder from NMD Metalpowders
You will need AZ91 powder with a particle size of 10–45 µm for your project?
NMD Metalpowders can help you determine the right powder quality, quantity required and technical specifications.
Enquire about AZ91 magnesium alloy powder and please let us know your manufacturing process and the required specifications.
