Why must extreme care be taken when inspecting magnesium parts?

Why must extreme care be taken when inspecting magnesium parts?

• A. Magnesium fails very quickly after onset of corrosion
• B. Magnesium is expensive
• C. Magnesium is very hard
• D. Magnesium forms protective oxide

Answer: (A)

Magnesium alloys are among the most corrosion-prone in aircraft, and once corrosion starts, it tends to accelerate, leading to rapid loss of material and strength. This means a small, early defect can quickly grow and compromise structural integrity if not found and treated promptly. The protective oxide layer on magnesium isn’t reliably stopping the attack in service conditions, so corrosion can advance under coatings and in hidden areas. Because of this tendency for quick deterioration, inspectors must be especially vigilant, looking for subtle signs of corrosion and addressing any found promptly before it worsens.

Magnesium alloys are among the most corrosion-prone in aircraft, and once corrosion starts, it tends to accelerate, leading to rapid loss of material and strength. This means a small, early defect can quickly grow and compromise structural integrity if not found and treated promptly. The protective oxide layer on magnesium isn’t reliably stopping the attack in service conditions, so corrosion can advance under coatings and in hidden areas. Because of this tendency for quick deterioration, inspectors must be especially vigilant, looking for subtle signs of corrosion and addressing any found promptly before it worsens.