Magnesium ZK21A (UNS M16210)

Image of Magnesium ZK21A bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

ZK21A is a magnesium alloy that is commonly used in aerospace and automotive applications. It is a lightweight and strong alloy that has good corrosion resistance.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
MagnesiumRemainder
Zinc2.0%2.6%
Zirconium0.45%0.80%

The following table provides a list of magnesium ZK21A properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

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

Table of Magnesium ZK21A Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density1800 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)235 - 260 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)180 - 195 MPa
Elongation at Break4%
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point600 - 635 °C
Solidus600 °C
Liquidus635 °C
Thermal Conductivity125 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)960 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)27 1/°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Resistivity5.50×10-6 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 ZK21A

AdvantagesDisadvantages
LightweightHigh cost
High strengthLow melting point
Good weldabilityDifficult to machine
Corrosion resistant

Applications of Magnesium ZK21A

Magnesium ZK21A is a versatile alloy with a wide range of applications. Some of the common applications of Magnesium ZK21A include:

  • Aircraft: Magnesium ZK21A is used in a variety of aircraft parts, including landing gear, wing spars, and fuselage panels.
  • Automotive: Magnesium ZK21A is used in a variety of automotive parts, including engine blocks, pistons, and brake rotors.
  • Electronics: Magnesium ZK21A is used in a variety of electronics components, including housings, heat sinks, and circuit boards.
  • Marine: Magnesium ZK21A is used in a variety of marine applications, including boat hulls, propellers, and winches.
  • Medical: Magnesium ZK21A is used in a variety of medical devices, including implants, surgical instruments, and medical equipment.
  • Sporting goods: Magnesium ZK21A is used in a variety of sporting goods, including bicycles, golf clubs, and fishing rods.
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