Magnesium ZC71-T6 (UNS M16710)

Image of Magnesium ZC71-T6 bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Magnesium ZC71-T6 is a high-performance magnesium alloy valued for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and fatigue durability. Commonly used in aerospace and automotive industries, it supports structural efficiency and performance in demanding applications while maintaining a low density for weight-sensitive designs.

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Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Magnesium90.0%92.5%
Copper1.0%1.5%
Manganese0.5%1.0%
Nickel——0.01%
Silicon——0.2%
Zinc6.0%7.0%
Residuals——0.3%

The following table provides a list of magnesium ZC71-T6 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

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

Table of Magnesium ZC71-T6 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density1830 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)360 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)340 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)44.2 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)17 GPa
Elongation at Break in 50 mm6%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.30
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point455 - 635 °C
Solidus455 °C
Liquidus635 °C
Thermal Conductivity122 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) Typical value for Mg alloys1.00 J/g·°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Resistivity5.40×10-6 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 ZC71-T6

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Low density, one of the lightest structural metalsHigh reactivity and susceptibility to corrosion
Excellent strength-to-weight ratioLimited temperature resistance (low melting point)
Good mechanical properties, including high strengthLimited availability and higher cost compared to other metals
Good damping capacity, reducing vibration and noiseProne to stress corrosion cracking
Good machinability, allowing for complex shapes and designsRequires specialized equipment and expertise for processing
Good electromagnetic shielding capabilitiesLimited welding options compared to other metals
Recyclable and environmentally friendlyProne to galvanic corrosion when in contact with certain metals

Applications of Magnesium ZC71-T6

Due to its superior strength, lightweight nature, and corrosion resistance, ZC71-T6 is widely used across multiple industries, including:

  • Aerospace Industry: Utilized in aircraft components such as structural parts, engine casings, and landing gear to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency.
  • Automotive Industry: Employed in engine blocks, transmission cases, and steering columns to lower vehicle weight and enhance fuel economy.
  • Electronics: Suitable for laptop frames, tablet casings, and electronic enclosures requiring electromagnetic shielding and lightweight structure.
  • Sporting Goods: Used in bicycle frames, tennis rackets, golf club heads, and other gear where strength, durability, and reduced weight are essential.
  • Medical Devices: Considered for implants, surgical instruments, and lightweight medical equipment due to its biocompatibility and mechanical properties.
  • Consumer Electronics: Applied in laptop frames, camera bodies, and casings to deliver structural integrity with a lightweight form factor.
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