Magnesium Elektron RZ5 (UNS M16410)

Image of Magnesium Elektron RZ5 bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Elektron RZ5 is a well-proven magnesium casting alloy containing zinc, rare earths, and zirconium. It is a high-strength alloy with good creep resistance and fatigue strength.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Magnesium92.3%95.3%
Rare Earths0.8%1.7%
Zinc3.5%5.0%
Zirconium0.40%1.0%

The following table provides a list of magnesium Elektron RZ5 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

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

Table of Magnesium Elektron RZ5 Properties
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 Strength138 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)44.1 GPa
Elongation at Break≥ 3%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.35
Brinell Hardness55 - 70
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point510 - 640 °C
Solidus510 °C
Liquidus640 °C
Thermal Conductivity109 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)960 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)27.1 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 Elektron RZ5

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High strength-to-weight ratioRelatively expensive compared to other alloys
LightweightLower melting point compared to other metals
Excellent corrosion resistanceRequires specialized equipment for processing
Good heat resistanceSusceptible to certain forms of corrosion
Good weldability and machinabilityLimited availability in certain regions
Suitable for complex shapes and designsPotential for flammability in certain conditions

Applications of Magnesium Elektron RZ5

Magnesium Elektron RZ5 finds application in various industries where lightweight materials with high strength and corrosion resistance are desired. Some of the common applications of Magnesium Elektron RZ5 include:

  • Aerospace: RZ5 is used in the aerospace industry for manufacturing lightweight components such as aircraft engine casings, gearbox housings, brackets, and structural parts.
  • Automotive: The automotive industry utilizes RZ5 for various applications, including transmission cases, engine blocks, intake manifolds, steering components, and suspension parts.
  • Defense: RZ5 is utilized in defense applications due to its strength, lightness, and resistance to corrosion. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of missile casings, armor plating, and other military equipment where weight reduction is crucial.
  • Sports and Recreation: Magnesium Elektron RZ5 is employed in the sports and recreation industry for producing lightweight sporting equipment such as golf club heads, tennis racquets, and bicycle frames.
  • Electronics: RZ5 can be utilized in the electronics industry for manufacturing lightweight electronic enclosures and components.
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