Why Magnesium Parts Are Gaining Ground in the Manufacturing Sector
Efficiency and innovation are crucial in Europe´s competitive industrial landscape. One material gaining traction is magnesium, a lightweight and strong metal. From automotive to aerospace, magnesium parts are becoming essential for European engineers seeking to reduce weight without compromising performance.
Why Magnesium? The Lightweight Champion
Magnesium is the lightest structural metal in use today. It’s 75% lighter than steel and 33% lighter than aluminium, yet strong enough for many high-performance applications. In Europe, where precision engineering meets strict emissions targets, magnesium offers an ideal combination of low weight and mechanical integrity.
Key Applications in the Market
Automotive
Germany’s auto giants—BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen—are under pressure to reduce vehicle weight for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Magnesium parts are now used in gearboxes, steering columns, and dashboard frames.
Aerospace and Defence
Lightweight components help reduce aircraft fuel consumption. European aerospace suppliers are integrating magnesium alloys where feasible into interior and structural parts.
Medical Technology
Magnesium’s biocompatibility is an asset in orthopaedics and prosthetics. European Medtech companies are exploring magnesium-based implants that biodegrade naturally in the body.
Electronics and Mobility Startups
With Europe´s startup scene pushing new designs in micromobility and wearable tech, magnesium’s formability and aesthetic finish make it ideal for housings and structural frames.
Start Your Manufacturing Project with MakerVerse
MakerVerse is a platform for sourcing industrial parts. It provides instant access to a vetted supply chain and a full range of manufacturing technologies. With AI-powered quoting, order management, and fulfilment, MakerVerse helps with everything from initial prototypes to full-scale production.
Benefits for European Manufacturers
- Lightweight without compromising strength
- Excellent castability and machinability
- High damping capacity—ideal for reducing vibration in machinery
- Sustainability: Magnesium is fully recyclable
- Thermal stability: Suitable for heat-dissipating parts
Challenges of Magnesium Parts
Despite its advantages, magnesium has some limitations:
- It is more prone to corrosion than aluminium, requiring surface treatment.
- Not all European suppliers have experience machining or casting magnesium.
- Cost and availability can vary, depending on the specific alloy and source.
However, modern coating technologies and supply chain partnerships are quickly overcoming these barriers.
Sourcing Magnesium Parts in Europe
European manufacturers can access magnesium components through specialised suppliers or manufacturing platforms like MakerVerse.
With a strong focus on quality control and access to CNC machining, die casting, and 3D printing services, these platforms simplify sourcing for magnesium parts across various industries.
Whether you’re developing automotive parts or custom housings, sourcing magnesium through a consolidated platform ensures faster lead times and fewer supply chain headaches.
Europe´s shift toward more efficient, sustainable, and high-performance production is accelerating the use of magnesium. As material science and supply networks evolve, magnesium parts will continue to play a growing role across sectors.
For manufacturers looking to stay ahead, now is the time to explore magnesium as a core part of their material strategy, not as a speciality metal.
