Alloy Wheel - Magnesium Alloy Wheels

Magnesium Alloy Wheels

Magnesium wheels were the first die-cast wheels produced, and were often referred to as simply "mag wheels." However, true magnesium wheels are no longer produced, being found only on classic cars. Magnesium suffered from many problems. It was very susceptible to pitting and corrosion, and would start to break down in just a few months. Cracking was a common problem, and the wheels were very flammable. Magnesium is used for flares and early flash lamps. Magnesium in bulk is hard to ignite but, once lit, is very hard to extinguish, being able to burn under water or in carbon dioxide, which are common extinguishing materials. Tires that caught fire could soon ignite the magnesium, creating difficulties for fire responders. Magnesium wheels required constant maintenance to keep polished. Alloys of magnesium were later developed to help alleviate some of the problems.

Magnesium wheels were originally used for racing, but their popularity during the 1960s lead to the development of other die-cast wheels, particularly of aluminum alloys. The term "mag wheels" became synonymous with die-cast wheels made from any material, from aluminum alloy wheels to plastic and composite wheels used on items like bicycles, wheelchairs, and skateboards.

Magnesium alloy wheels are sometimes used on racing cars, in place of heavier steel or aluminum wheels, for better performance.