Wide-ranging research in metal processing technologies is helping industry become more competitive and sustainable, particularly in light metals such as aluminium, magnesium and titanium.

Providing a coordinated approach to materials design, creation, characterisation and application.

With oil prices at an historic high and global concern about vehicle emissions, consumer demand - and the focus in car manufacturing - is shifting to lightweight, low-fuel consumption cars.

Car components with doubled mechanical strength, higher fatigue resistance and improved energy absorption are the result of a revolutionary CSIRO heat treatment process for high pressure die casting (HPDC) of aluminium.

The Light Metals Flagship is researching new technologies that will improve the cost and performance of light metal components, focussing on developing improved alloys and treatments, manufacturing processes and surface and anti-corrosion treatments.

A multi-disciplinary CSIRO team has been awarded the 2007 CSIRO Medal for Business Excellence for commercialisation of the innovative T-Mag™ magnesium casting technology in a joint venture with three South Australian small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs).

CSIRO researchers are developing novel materials and cost-effective production processes to meet the needs of industry.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is helping the minerals industry obtain a true picture of the energy use and greenhouse gas emissions of different processes and identifying opportunities for improving performance.

CSIRO's pioneering work at the forefront of a worldwide race to develop a new production process for titanium, aiming to halve production costs is shown in this video. (0:46) 

A non-toxic galvanised products coating called Quench Coat is set to revolutionise the fight against ‘white rust’ by replacing the toxic chromium-based treatments currently used in Australia on freshly galvanised products. (4:58)

Dr Nazmul Alam leads research into intelligent processes for advanced engineered components. One focus is on surface bulk deposition of wear resistant alloys.

Dr Paul Cleary heads a team of world-leading mathematicians and engineers highly regarded for innovative Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) algorithms.

The February 2010 issue of Process outlines a number of technologies currently being developed through CSIRO's Flagship program that aim to provide a competitive edge for iron ore, gold, nickel and alumina producers. (12 pages)

The October 2009 issue of Process highlights a range of materials characterisation tools and techniques currently under development that could help unlock the value contained in Australia’s mineral deposits, and help improve processing performance. (12 pages)