What is aluminum alloying?
This is the largest single application for magnesium, accounting for about forty to forty-five percent of total consumption. Relatively small additions of magnesium to aluminum will improve its strength and corrosion resistance. Many aluminum alloys contain some magnesium. The 5,000 series, frequently called the marine alloys because of their excellent corrosion resistance, may contain up to 5.5 percent magnesium. The 7,000 series, often referred to as the aerospace alloys, may contain up to 3.5 percent magnesium. The ubiquitous aluminum beverage can usually uses alloy 3004 (1.1 percent magnesium) for the can’s body and alloy 5182 (4.5 percent magnesium) for the lid. Over 60 percent of the aluminum beverage cans sold in the U.S. today are being recycled, thereby conserving the magnesium component.
