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Magnesium AZ31B-H26 (AMS 4376)

Magnesium AZ31B-H26 AMS 4376

AZ31B-H26 alloy is a version of the base AZ31B magnesium alloy that is partially annealed and partially strain hardened. When compared to other versions of the same alloy, AZ31B-H26 has very high strength and stiffness, but lower ductility. Due to these differences, the H26 temper finds slightly different use than similar materials or can be used in combination with them. Please note that an even stiffer version with H28 temper is available, which also has even lower ductility.

Thanks to the high percentage of magnesium in the alloy, it has an outstanding stiffness-to-weight ratio. In these parameters, it is better than both aluminum alloys and steel alloys. That said, Magnesium AZ31B-H26 can’t be used at higher temperatures than 300 °F (150 °C) due to low Liquidus. On the positive side, thanks to the outstanding stiffness-to-weight ratio, AZ31B-H26 is one of the best alloys for manufacturing of modern aircraft fuselages, especially because it brings fuel efficiency and eco benefits.

Other properties of Magnesium AZ31B-H26 include an outstanding ability to absorb vibrations – much better than comparable aluminum alloys. Thanks to this, the H26 temper is used for manufacturing of textile machinery and concrete tools. Some premium laptop and smartphone manufacturers use AZ31B-H26 for the manufacturing of cases, in combination with other designations of the same alloy.

Even though other tempers, like 0 and H24 are used in the electrical industry for RFI and EMI shielding, the H26 temper might not be the best choice due to lower ductility, even though it is non-magnetic. However, the stiffer nature of this temper makes it a better choice for manufacturing of speaker cones in the high-end audio industry.

The added stiffness when compared to 0 and H24 tempers, makes the H26 temper a better choice for manufacturing strong and lightweight parts in the automotive industry. Most supercar manufacturers use Magnesium AZ31B-H26 for their racing wheels, but this alloy also finds use in other structural parts of the vehicles.

The biggest disadvantage of AZ31B-H26, like with all magnesium-based alloys is flammability. This means that the worker should apply special care when working with the product, like using special lubricants during the machining process. Another downside of magnesium is that it is irritating to the skin, airways, and eyes, so special equipment is required while working.

Tech Steel & Materials offers Magnesium AZ31B-H26 in one sub-type specification and one shape/form:

• AMS 4376 (Available as plate)

Chemical Composition of Magnesium AZ31B-H24

*Not exclusively to the element mentioned, but that one predominates other elements that are used only in minimal quantities.

Fabrication and Working Instructions

Like all other magnesium alloys, AZ31B-H24 is easily machinable using proprietary lubricants specifically designed for the purpose. However, the H26 temper has lower ductility when compared to H24 and 0 tempers, which makes it a worse choice for manufacturing of wires. H26 temper parts can still be easily formed at a temperature of 500° F (260° C).

Like most magnesium alloys, AZ31B-H26 can be easily welded using metal arc and gas tungsten welding processes. The weld is of a very high strength and stiffness.

Mechanical and Physical Properties

Thermal Properties of Magnesium AZ31B-H24

Electrical Properties of Magnesium AZ31B-H24

Select AMS Number:

AMS Number	Alloy	Type	UNS	Cross Ref. Spec	Misc./Shape
AMS 4376	AZ31B-H26	Magnesium	M11311	QQ-M-44	Plate