Magnesium alloys comprise 3–10% aluminium, 1–3.8% zinc and 0.4% manganese. The two important magnesium alloys are dow metal and electron metal. Dow metal comprises 9.1% magnesium and 9% aluminium. Electron metal, a trade name of magnesium, is a base alloy that contains 4% zinc and small percentages of copper, iron and silicon.
The tensile strength of magnesium alloy is low. Heat treatment increases the resistance to shock. On exposure to the atmosphere, it develops a dark oxide film which resists corrosion. Magnesium alloy, dow metal, can be forged, welded and drawn as wires.
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