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 strength magnesium casting alloy developed by Magnesium Elektron to have good ambient and elevated temperature properties whilst retaining good foundry characteristics.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Magnesium93.3%95.6%
Rare Earths2.0%3.0%
Silver2.0%2.7%
Zirconium0.40%1.0%

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

Click on the icon 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 a versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Aerospace: Magnesium QE22 is used in a variety of aerospace applications, including aircraft bodies, engine parts, and landing gear.
  • Automotive: Magnesium QE22 is used in a variety of automotive applications, including engine blocks, transmission housings, and suspension components.
  • Military: Magnesium QE22 is used in a variety of military applications, including weapons, armor, and vehicles.
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