Magnesium sheet production

CSIRO has signed an exclusive option to licence its magnesium sheet production process with a subsidiary of Magnesium International. The CSIRO technology is one of only a few technologies capable of producing thin magnesium sheet direct from the molten metal. Under the new agreement, Magnesium International will work with CSIRO on further advancing the technology.

The magnesium sheet technology has emanated from four years of work by research scientists and engineers at the CSIRO Manufacturing and Infrastructure and Technology Division.

While magnesium sheet is considered a growth product for the 21st century – with its light-weight and high strength qualities – the uptake of magnesium sheet has been hindered by expensive and difficult conventional production processes.

“After successful test runs we are about to commence a production trial run of high-end 3mm magnesium alloy sheet for a potential customer,” said CSIRO Business Development Manager Brad Cowley.

“This shows the CSIRO production method can make a cost-effective magnesium sheet of the highest standard; Magnesium International is looking to engage with this company on a commercial basis. Our technology has the scope to allow many more manufacturers to enter the magnesium sheet market.”