Magnesium, used effectively in aircraft for landing gear assemblies and other heavy members where strength-weight factors are critical, presents a fire hazard as it is one of the metals which can ignite and burn fiercely. Many magnesium fires causing extensive damage have occurred at air stations as a result of such events as blown out tires and brake seizures. This metal and its alloys present specialized difficulties in fire extinguishment because, when burning, it reacts with water and foam.
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