This was one of the few posts which held my attention straight to the end!
Well done!
Eric
Not always. Original (very old) transmissions and engine blocks from VW were an aluminum/magnesium alloy. Later air cooled models (around 1970 comes to mind) they started hasing out the magnesium. One needs to be really careful though because automakers are starting to reintroduce magnesium to reduce weight and vibration/noise in certain parts.
This was one of the few posts which held my attention straight to the end!
Well done!
Eric
Given all the interesting talk on burning metal powder some may be interested in http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermite especially some of the links to videos/pictures towards the bottom.
Yes there is a very good and safe way to tell the difference between Aluminum and Magnesium. Place a small drop of Duzall Flux on the piece in question. If the remains clear it is Aluminum. If the drop turns jet black it is magnesium. Duzall is liquid flux used for soft soldering. It can be obtained from most welding supply houses. Duzall is a trade name of the Esab Co.
This stuff is not expensive comes in a small plastic bottle and is acid based, so be carefull with it. Handle it with the respect that any acid needs.