GM China Says Low-Pressure-Cast Magnesium Part Marks Breakthrough

General Motors China’s Advanced Technical Center in Shanghai produces its first low-pressure-cast magnesium parts at its micro-foundry and formability lab, which the auto maker bills as a new milestone in automotive-materials technology.

The process-development team produced a magnesium-alloy control arm that is 30% lighter than one cast from aluminum, the auto maker says.

“The successful production of a part made from magnesium alloy is an important breakthrough in lightweight automotive materials research,” says John Du, director-GM China Science Lab.

“Today’s consumers want their vehicles to be more stylish, safer, more durable, more affordable and more fuel-efficient. This is resulting in demand for lightweight yet strong materials that make a vehicle more economical to operate.”

Scientists at the laboratory estimate that using magnesium alloys could result in a 7% improvement in fuel economy for every 331-lb. (150-kg) reduction in weight.

The micro-foundry and formability lab are part of the Automotive Technical Center’s advanced materials laboratory. The advanced materials laboratory includes a battery-cell testing lab, battery materials lab, metallography and electrochemical lab and cell-fabrication lab.

The initial focus is on lightweight materials such as magnesium, and development of battery cells to improve the efficiency of electric vehicles.

GM China’s Advanced Technical Center opened in September 2011. A second phase of the facility will open later this year.