1. Scope--This SAE Standard covers the most common magnesium alloys used in wrought forms, and lists chemical composition and minimum mechanical properties for the various forms. A general indication of the usage of the various materials is also provided.

1.1 Introduction--Magnesium wrought alloys are produced and fabricated by all the common production methods such as rolling, extrusion, and forging. Forms available are sheet, plate, wire, rod, bar, shapes, tubes, forgings, and impact extrusions. Magnesium alloys can be formed by bending, drawing, spinning, and pressing. The work is generally done hot except for simple operations. When done hot, magnesium alloys have exceptional workability. The temperature used varies from 300-750°F (149-399°C), depending on operation, alloy, and condition. All of the wrought alloys can be joined by adhesive bonding, spot welding, riveting, and bolting. Most of them are readily fusion welded and some do not require stress relief after welding. As with the cast alloys, all wrought alloys machine readily.

The temper designations used for wrought magnesium are similar to those used for aluminum alloys. Temper designations are covered by ASTM B 296-67 (1972), Recommended Practice for Temper Designations of Magnesium Alloys, Cast and Wrought. Mechanical properties are obtained by standard ASTM procedures. The tensile and compressive yield strength is taken at an offset of 0.2% from the initial modulus line.

Table 1 lists similar ASTM, AMS, Military, and Federal specifications covering the SAE wrought alloys in this SAE Standard.