Magnesium HK31A-O (UNS M13310)

HK31A-O is a high-strength magnesium alloy recognized for its superior combination of creep resistance, pressure tightness, and castability. Its lightweight nature and exceptional strength-to-weight ratio make it ideal for aerospace and other demanding engineering applications requiring durable yet lightweight materials.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Magnesium | —— | Remainder |
| Copper | —— | 0.1% |
| Nickel | —— | 0.01% |
| Thorium | 2.5% | 4.0% |
| Zinc | —— | 0.3% |
| Zirconium | 0.4% | 1.0% |
The following table provides a list of magnesium HK31A-O properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the button to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 1800 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | 200 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 125 MPa |
| Compressive Strength (Yield) | 97 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 45 GPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 17 GPa |
| Elongation at Break in 50 mm | 30% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.35 |
| Machinability | 100% |
| Charpy Impact V-notch | 3.40 J |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 590 - 650 °C |
| Solidus | 590 °C |
| Liquidus | 650 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 92 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 1000 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 26.8 1/°C |
| Heat of Fusion | 325 J/g |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Resistivity | 6.00×10-6 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 HK31A-O
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High strength | Corrosion-prone |
| Light weight | High cost |
| Good castability | Low melting point |
| Creep resistance | Poor machinability |
Applications of Magnesium HK31A-O
HK31A-O is employed across diverse industries, delivering reliable performance in numerous applications including:
- Aircraft structures: Used in fuselages, wings, and landing gear.
- Engine parts: Utilized in pistons, connecting rods, and cylinder heads.
- Gearboxes: Incorporated in gearboxes for automobiles and motorcycles.
- Bearings: Applied in bearings for automobiles and machinery.
- Machine tools: Found in milling machines, lathes, and drill presses.
- Medical devices: Used in implants and prosthetics.
- Sporting goods: Employed in bicycles, golf clubs, and fishing rods.
