This practice is intended as an aid for establishing a suitable procedure for the heat treatment of magnesium alloys to achieve the proper physical and mechanical properties. Air chamber furnaces that may be either electrically heated, or oil- or gas-fired, are usually used for the heat treatment process. Each furnace must be gas tight, have suitable equipment for protective atmosphere, be equipped with a high-velocity fan or any other comparable means for circulating the atmosphere, and designed so that no direct radiation from the heating elements or impingement of the flame on the magnesium. It is also important that the furnace be calibrated before it is used initially and after any change in the furnace. Likewise, temperature-measurement systems should be regularly checked for accuracy.

1.1 This practice is intended as an aid in establishing a suitable procedure for the heat treatment of magnesium alloys to assure proper physical and mechanical properties.

1.2 Times and temperatures are typical for various forms, sizes, and manufacturing methods and may not exactly describe the optimum heat treatment for a specific item. Consequently, it is not intended that this practice be used as a substitute for a detailed production process or procedure.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.