Magnesium Elektron QE22 (UNS M18220)

Image of Magnesium Elektron QE22 bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Elektron QE22 is a high-performance magnesium casting alloy engineered for superior mechanical properties at both ambient and elevated temperatures. Developed by Magnesium Elektron, it offers excellent strength, ductility, and foundry characteristics, making it a popular choice for demanding structural applications across advanced industries.

Looking to buy magnesium?
Check pricing and availability through our trusted partner:

Online Metals - High-quality magnesium with fast shipping
Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Magnesium93.3%95.6%
Rare Earths2.0%3.0%
Silver2.0%2.7%
Zirconium0.4%1.0%

The following table provides a list of magnesium Elektron QE22 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

Click on the button to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of Magnesium Elektron QE22 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density1820 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
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+760 - 70 MPa
Shear Strength152 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)44.1 GPa
Elongation at Break≥ 2%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.30
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point550 - 640 °C
Solidus550 °C
Liquidus640 °C
Thermal Conductivity113 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)1000 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)26.7 1/°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Resistivity6.80×10-6 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 QE22

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High strengthHigh cost
Good ductilityCorrosion prone
Excellent machinabilityPoor thermal conductivity
Good weldabilityLow melting point

Applications of Magnesium QE22

Magnesium QE22 is widely utilized across multiple high-performance sectors due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and thermal properties, including:

  • Aerospace: Used in a variety of aerospace applications, including aircraft bodies, engine parts, and landing gear.
  • Automotive: Used in a variety of automotive applications, including engine blocks, transmission housings, and suspension components.
  • Military: Used in a variety of military applications, including weapons, armor, and vehicles.
Similar Alloys