The Interbike Cycling Expo in Reno, Nevada is going on right now, and is featuring bicycle parts made from a new alloy that has previously been available only for military and aerospace applications. Made by Allite Inc, Super Magnesium is being developed for a wide range of consumer products, including sporting goods, drones, engine components, and smartphone exteriors. Allite is an Ohio-based company run by cycling veteran Bruno Maier
Super Magnesium Bike Frame.
Super magnesium is lighter and stiffer than aluminum but cheaper than carbon fiber, which can be prohibitively expensive. This makes it an ideal choice for consumers who are looking for for a better option than standard aluminum equipment, but can't afford carbon fiber, which can be upwards of $12,000 for a bike frame. The strength-to-weight ratio of the magnesium alloy compares quite favorably to carbon fiber, which is considered the gold standard.
The company is producing 3 separate alloys- AE81 is best for welding, ZE62 is best for forging, and WE54 which is the best for high temperature applications. All three show strong resistance to corrosion and wear, and are able to stand up to heavy metal-fatigue. The alloys are much harder than aluminum and show very good electrical insulators. Allite also claims that super magnesium is the only magnesium alloy that will melt, instead of burning, when exposed to a 1,200° F flame.
Super Magnesium Drone Parts.
Though super magnesium has been in production since 2006, they were only available for classified defense applications until now. According to Allite's press release, the alloys are 20% more dense than carbon-epoxy composites, and 33% less dense than aircraft-grade aluminum. They are also completely recyclable and have a lower carbon footprint than other structural materials. Magnesium is widespread around the world and easily harvested from plentiful reserves.