Abstract: The invention provides a method of joining dissimilar materials, such as aluminum to steel, by applying low pressure and heat to minimize distortion of the materials and the heat affected zone. The method includes applying current to a weld element, at least partially melting a portion of the first material with the heated weld element, and passing through the at least partially melted portion of the first material with the weld element. The method further includes contacting the second material with the heated weld element, and melting a portion of the weld element and a portion of the second material in contact with one another to form a weld. The weld element is designed with a head to trap the first material between the head and the second material, and a vent for receiving the at least partially melted first material as the weld element passes through.

Abstract: A die castable magnesium based alloy comprising, by weight, between about 3 and 10% aluminum, between about 0.5 and 2.5% calcium, up to about 1.5% silicon, up to about 0.7% zinc, and the remainder being magnesium. The alloy has been found to exhibit more favorable castability and creep resistance than comparative magnesium based alloys.

Abstract: A die castable magnesium based alloy comprising, by weight, between about 3 and 10% aluminum, between about 0.5 and 2.5% calcium, up to about 1.5% silicon, up to about 0.7% zinc, and the remainder being magnesium. The alloy has been found to exhibit more favorable castability and creep resistance than comparative magnesium based alloys.