Lightweighting technologies

The Light Metals Flagship is developing technologies for manufacture of components in super-light magnesium and aluminium alloys for use in the automotive, aerospace and consumer product sectors.

• 21 March 2011 | Updated 14 October 2011

• Research partners
• Current research 

The material and process technologies which underpin transformation of light metals into products are critical to the future of the light metals industry.

Many of these technologies are the cutting edge of mechanical engineering, delivering 'next-generation' alloys and components for:

• 'green car' initiatives in vehicle manufacturing
• advanced aerospace projects.

CSIRO has an established history in:

• development of new technologies for manufacturing in aluminium and magnesium
• improving the performance of light metal components
• development of novel light metal alloys.

Our clients range from small die-casting companies to aerospace multinationals.

Through the Light Metals Flagship, we are addressing the big issues limiting the use of light metals in manufactured products.

We are integrating research and development across CSIRO to take new approaches to long-standing challenges in metal component manufacturing.

Research partners

Our research in manufacturing light metals is being undertaken in collaboration with Australian Co-operative Research Centres (CRCs) and university researchers, including:

• CAST CRC
• AutoCRC
• Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Light Metals Design.

CSIRO also works in partnership with major Australian automotive manufacturers.

Our technologies for lightweight components are helping the Australian car industry to introduce new models that are significantly lighter, and increasingly fuel efficient.

Current research

New technology for casting magnesium automotive components

T-Mag technology developed by Light Metals Flagship researchers is set to revolutionise the production of magnesium alloy vehicle components, cutting the cost of production and the weight of the finished product.

Heat treatment of high-pressure die-castings

A new process developed by Light Metals Flagship researchers means that high-pressure die-castings can now be heat treated to improve their mechanical properties.

Cool tool for cheaper metal

A revolutionary new process for feeding molten metal into casts will cut the cost of making metal parts.
A revolutionary new process for feeding molten metal into casts will cut the cost of making metal parts.

Ready to roll

CSIRO's patented twin roll casting technology produces production-ready sheets of magnesium direct from molten metal.

Increasing aluminium in car bodies

While increasing the amount of aluminium in car bodies will lead to a reduction in their weight, and consequently reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse emissions, there are barriers that are preventing this light metal’s widespread use. Light Metals Flagship researchers are identifying these barriers with a view to developing technology to overcome them.

Find out more about the Light Metals Flagship.