Magnesium Elektron EQ21 (UNS M18330)
Elektron EQ21 is a high-strength magnesium casting alloy developed by Magnesium Elektron. It is known for its excellent ambient and elevated temperature properties while still maintaining good foundry characteristics.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Magnesium | 94.2% | 96.75% |
| Copper | 0.05% | 0.10% |
| Rare Earths | 1.5% | 3.0% |
| Silver | 1.3% | 1.7% |
| Zirconium | 0.40% | 1.0% |
The following table provides a list of magnesium Elektron EQ21 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 1810 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | ≥ 240 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | ≥ 175 MPa |
| Compressive Strength (Ultimate) | 310 - 385 MPa |
| Compressive Strength (Yield) | 165 - 200 MPa |
| Fatigue Strength # of Cycles 5.0e+7 | 60 - 70 MPa |
| Shear Strength | 152 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 44 GPa |
| Elongation at Break | ≥ 2% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.30 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 540 - 640 °C |
| Solidus | 540 °C |
| Liquidus | 640 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 113 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 1000 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 26.7 1/°C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Resistivity | 6.85×10-6 Ω·cm |
The values in this table are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as the specific manufacturing process and heat treatment applied to the alloy.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Magnesium EQ21
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High strength | High cost |
| Good elevated temperature performance | Corrosion resistance |
| Good castability | Limited availability |
| Good weldability |
Applications of Magnesium EQ21
Magnesium EQ21 is a versatile alloy with a wide range of potential applications. Some applications of EQ21 include:
- Engine blocks: Magnesium EQ21 is used in engine blocks because it is strong, lightweight, and has good thermal conductivity. This makes it a good choice for reducing the weight of vehicles and improving fuel efficiency.
- Wheels: Magnesium EQ21 is used in wheels because it is strong, lightweight, and has good corrosion resistance. This makes it a good choice for improving the performance and fuel efficiency of vehicles.
- Rocket engines: Magnesium EQ21 is used in rocket engines because it is strong, lightweight, and has good thermal conductivity. This makes it a good choice for reducing the weight of rockets and improving their performance.
- Armored vehicles: Magnesium EQ21 is used in armored vehicles because it is strong, lightweight, and has good ballistic properties. This makes it a good choice for protecting soldiers and equipment from gunfire and other threats.