The processes described in this practice clean and provide a paint base for the finishing of magnesium and magnesium alloys. Service conditions will determine, to some degree, the specific process to be applied.

1.1 this practice covers a guide for metal finishers to clean and then provide a paint base for the finishing of magnesium and magnesium alloys using chemical conversion coatings. Where applicable (for example, aerospace) secondary supplementary coatings (for example, surface sealing) can be used (see Appendix X1).

1.2 Although primarily intended as a base for paint, chemical conversion coatings provide varying degrees of surface protection for magnesium parts exposed to indoor atmosphere either in storage or in service under mild exposure conditions. An example is the extensive use of the dichromate treatment (see 5.2) as a final coating for machined surfaces of die cast magnesium components in the computer industry.

1.3 The traditional numbering of the coating is used throughout.

1.4 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.