The Chongqing University and its partners have successfully developed and trial-produced the world’s first magnesium alloy semi-solid injection molded automotive wheel in batches. The feat was accomplished using Haitian Zhisheng's newly launched 3600T magnesium alloy semi-solid injection molding machine.
According to the Magnesium Window News, the project team in this trial production successfully created 16-inch wheels for standard passenger cars. This was the first of its kind using SSM technology and four types of magnesium alloys. This is another innovation introduced by Chongqing University and its associated teams, following the release of its world's largest magnesium alloy die-cast automotive rear floor in 2023. Until now, Magnesium alloy automotive wheels have been primarily manufactured using solid-state forging.
The single injection volume reached 10kg, while the wheel's net weight was 7kg. The combination achieved a weight reduction of around 30% compared to traditional aluminum alloy wheels. The outcome demonstrated significant lightweight effects, along with notable reductions in material and manufacturing costs. In its next steps, the project team will collaborate with upstream and downstream industry partners and end-users to enhance future designs. They will develop these products based on semi-solid processes to achieve benefits in weight and carbon emission reduction.
The demand for automotive lightweight has become increasingly urgent to achieve the national ‘carbon peak and carbon neutrality’ goals. As the lightest structural metal, magnesium alloys have a density of only two-thirds of an aluminium alloy and one-fourth of steel, making them one of the most promising lightweight materials.
As reported by the Shanghai Metal Market, the research team at Chongqing University has achieved notable advancements in high-performance magnesium alloys, structural components, and magnesium-based energy storage materials. Their work has significantly contributed to the wider use of magnesium alloys in NEVs, rail transit, and aerospace, while also driving progress in energy storage technologies like magnesium hydrogen storage and magnesium batteries.
Additionally, China holds more than 70% of the world’s magnesium resources, making it a dominant player in the global magnesium market. For over a decade, China has produced more than 80% of the world’s magnesium and magnesium alloys, cementing its significant influence in the global magnesium materials industry. The rapid development and widespread use of magnesium and its alloys are strategically important for advancing energy conservation, reducing emissions, ensuring energy security, and addressing the shortage of metal mineral resources.
Source: www.metal.com
