Magnesium Elektron WE54 (UNS M18410)
Elektron WE54 is a high-strength, heat-treatable magnesium casting alloy that can be used at temperatures up to 300°C. It is known for its excellent strength and corrosion resistance, making it a suitable material for various applications, including aerospace, automotive, and power generation.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Magnesium | 90.5% | 92.35% |
| Neodymium | 1.5% | 2.0% |
| Rare Earths | 1.0% | 2.0% |
| Yttrium | 4.75% | 5.5% |
| Zirconium | 0.40% | |
The following table provides a list of magnesium Elektron WE54 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 1800 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | ≥ 250 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | ≥ 170 MPa |
| Compressive Strength (Ultimate) | 410 MPa |
| Compressive Strength (Yield) | 165 - 175 MPa |
| Shear Strength | 150 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 44.1 GPa |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.30 |
| Brinell Hardness | 85 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 545 - 640 °C |
| Solidus | 545 °C |
| Liquidus | 640 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 52 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 960 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 27 1/°C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Resistivity | 1.73×10-5 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 WE54
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Corrosion susceptibility |
| High strength-to-weight ratio | Higher cost |
| Good heat resistance | Limited availability |
| Weldability | Lower modulus of elasticity |
| Potential for design flexibility | Limited machining options |
| Improved mechanical properties | Flammability |
Applications of Magnesium Elektron WE54
Magnesium WE54 has several potential applications in various industries. Here are some common applications:
- Aerospace components: Magnesium WE54’s lightweight nature, high strength-to-weight ratio, and good heat resistance make it suitable for aerospace applications.
- Automotive industry: WE54 can be utilized in the automotive sector for lightweight structural components, such as chassis and body panels. Its high strength and excellent formability make it a viable choice for reducing vehicle weight and enhancing fuel economy.
- Sports equipment: Magnesium WE54’s combination of lightweight and strength properties makes it suitable for sports equipment. It can be used in the production of bicycles, golf clubs, tennis rackets, and other sporting goods where weight reduction and performance are essential.
- Industrial machinery: WE54 can find applications in various industrial machinery and equipment. It can be used in the manufacturing of components that require both strength and lightness, such as gears, housings, and brackets.
- Medical devices: The biocompatibility of magnesium alloys makes them suitable for certain medical applications. Magnesium WE54 can be used in the production of orthopedic implants, surgical instruments, and other medical devices where a lightweight and biocompatible material is desired.