Madison, IL, USA - 16th October 2009: Magnesium Elektron North America Inc. is proud to announce its involvement in the new MIL-DTL-32333 specification for Magnesium Armor Plate.
The new publication of MIL-DTL-32333 is the first US magnesium armor plate military specification. This new publication is approved for use by the Department of the Army and is available for use by all Departments and Agencies of the US Department of Defense. Magnesium Elektron NA, the manufacturing site of AZ31B-H24 armor plate, had worked closely with USARL in terms of ballistic testing over a number of years to achieve this goal.
With the advent of MIL-DTL 32333 spec for magnesium alloy AZ31B-H24 ballistic armor plate, it not only will provide troops with a lighter weight solution for ultimate protection in the field, as well as improved mobility and fuel efficiency for military hardware, but it will encourage materials engineers to think out-of-the-box during the design phase. Whether it is in conjunction with other materials in clad or composite form, or a stand-alone armor plate application, there is now a lighter weight option available to that of traditionally used armor materials.
Prior to 2003, MENA’s same magnesium rolling facility also produced many tons of aluminum 5083 armor plate since the ‘80’s. As time has marched forward, magnesium armor plate has now come to fruition, and ironically at the same manufacturing facility.
From a commercial aspect, the establishment of the magnesium armor plate spec breathes new life into a long-standing wrought product portfolio, and will now support a broader array of demanding applications. Additionally, what’s down the pike can be considered an exciting step in the right direction in terms of new wrought magnesium applications. WE43 and new Elektron 675 alloy are also under development in rolled sheet and plate form, with the intention of incorporating these alloys within the new armor plate spec when the ballistic testing is complete, and in conjunction with the USARL. Both Elektron 675 and WE43 are higher performance alloys, and WE43 is a more creep-resistant/higher temperature alloy than AZ31B.
The Magnesium Elektron Division is a world leader in the production of high performance magnesium alloys and products. Magnesium Elektron UK began production of magnesium in 1936 at its Manchester, UK plant and subsequently developed a wide range of magnesium alloy systems and products. The company is part of the Luxfer Group, an international manufacturer of high performance engineering materials including magnesium alloys, zirconium products and high pressure lightweight gas cylinders.
Please contact Bob Hamilton at +001-618-452-5190 ext. 5056 for further information.
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 MIL-DTL-32333 (MR).pdf
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