Magnesium Elektron RZ5 (UNS M16410)

Magnesium Elektron RZ5 is a high-performance magnesium casting alloy composed of zinc, rare earth elements, and zirconium. Known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and fatigue performance, RZ5 is widely used in industries demanding lightweight and durable materials.
Chemical Composition | ||
---|---|---|
Element | Min | Max |
Magnesium | 92.3% | 95.3% |
Rare Earths | 0.8% | 1.7% |
Zinc | 3.5% | 5.0% |
Zirconium | 0.4% | 1.0% |
The following table provides a list of magnesium Elektron RZ5 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the button to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
Mechanical Properties | Metric |
---|---|
Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | ≥ 200 MPa |
Tensile Strength (Yield) | ≥ 135 MPa |
Compressive Strength (Ultimate) | 330 - 365 MPa |
Compressive Strength (Yield) | 130 - 150 MPa |
Shear Strength | 138 MPa |
Young’s Modulus (E) | 44.1 GPa |
Elongation at Break | ≥ 3% |
Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.35 |
Brinell Hardness | 55 - 70 |
Thermal Properties | Metric |
Melting Point | 510 - 640 °C |
Solidus | 510 °C |
Liquidus | 640 °C |
Thermal Conductivity | 109 W/m·K |
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 960 J/kg·K |
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 27.1 1/°C |
Electrical Properties | Metric |
Electrical Resistivity | 6.80×10-6 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 Elektron RZ5
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
High strength-to-weight ratio | Relatively expensive compared to other alloys |
Lightweight | Lower melting point compared to other metals |
Excellent corrosion resistance | Requires specialized equipment for processing |
Good heat resistance | Susceptible to certain forms of corrosion |
Good weldability and machinability | Limited availability in certain regions |
Suitable for complex shapes and designs | Potential for flammability in certain conditions |
Applications of Magnesium Elektron RZ5
RZ5 is widely employed across industries that require lightweight, corrosion-resistant components with reliable strength, including:
- Aerospace: Used in the aerospace industry for manufacturing lightweight components such as aircraft engine casings, gearbox housings, brackets, and structural parts.
- Automotive: Utilized for various applications, including transmission cases, engine blocks, intake manifolds, steering components, and suspension parts.
- Defense: Applied in defense sectors due to its strength, lightness, and corrosion resistance. Commonly used for missile casings, armor plating, and other military equipment where weight reduction is crucial.
- Sports and Recreation: Employed in producing lightweight sporting equipment such as golf club heads, tennis racquets, and bicycle frames.
- Electronics: Used for manufacturing lightweight electronic enclosures and components.