Magnesium parts question
 

Mag is a light, but weird material. What specifically causes the chemical reaction that creates the white oxcidation on mag parts? Is it just water, or salt water or gasoline...maybe acid? And does anyone know how to neutralize/stabilize the reaction?

Thanks

Speedo

thanks Chris...
 

Now what do us "meer mortals" do for things like mag TBs and stacks? Get them dipped sealed/treated and annodized? And where?

Speedo

Chromating is still fairly common and I would imagine that there are many Helicopter Maintenance Shops have this capability or would recommend a local sub contractor.

I have been managing to buy DOW 1 here in the UK but there are many other DOW treatments that should be easy to accesss.

http://www.magnesium-elektron.com/data/downloads/ds256su0.pdf

Hi Lars: you might try vinegar,I have never tried it but is a mild acid. I use stronger stuff that I have in my shop, aluminum cleaner and a aluminum conditioner, both made by PPG and available at auto body supplie stores. Ask to look at there tech sheets on the products. The conditioner will help to seal pores. There are aerosol cans of clears that you can use after cleaning and etching that is made for alum./mag. Steve

Lars

My process for treating magnesium parts is as follows:

1. Bead blast to remove the most of the oxidation oxidation
2. Treat surface with acid based metal prep to remove last traces of oxidation. If properly bead blasted this will turn the surface a uniform grey
3. Soak with Gibbs to preserve surface and prevent future oxidation

CorrosionX

Nothing else comes close.
Blue can is aviation grade, red can is marine grade and the high humidity saltwater marine environment is the most corrosive environment on the planet.
Spray it on, let it soak, wipe off any excess and the white corrosion dissapears and stays away for around 4 months even if you drive in the rain and get the motor wet regularly.

They also make another type for firearms.

It's not overpriced and you don't have to mail order a 3 can minimum like the copycat good ole boy products. Here in Florida they have it at marine hardware stores.