Magnesium ZK60A-T6 (UNS M16600)

Image of Magnesium ZK60A-T6 bars
Credit: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

ZK60A-T6 is a wrought magnesium alloy containing zirconium and zinc. It is a good choice for applications where high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, damping capacity, and machinability are important.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
MagnesiumRemainder
Zinc4.8%6.2%
Zirconium0.45%

The following table provides a list of magnesium ZK60A-T6 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

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

Table of Magnesium ZK60A-T6 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density1830 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)325 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)270 MPa
Compressive Strength (Yield)170 MPa
Bearing Strength (Ultimate)450 MPa
Bearing Strength (Yield)320 MPa
Shear Strength170 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)45 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)17 GPa
Elongation at Break in 50 mm11%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.35
Brinell Hardness 500 kg load, 10 mm ball75
Knoop Hardness Converted from Brinell98
Vickers Hardness Converted from Brinell85
Machinability100%
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point Incipient Melting≥ 518 °C
Solidus520 °C
Liquidus635 °C
Thermal Conductivity120 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)1000 J/kg·K
Heat of Fusion315 J/g
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Resistivity6.00×10-6 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 ZK60A-T6

AdvantagesDisadvantages
LightweightFlammability
High Strength-to-Weight RatioLimited Temperature Resistance
Good Corrosion ResistanceHigher Cost
Good CastabilityLimited Availability

Applications of Magnesium ZK60A-T6

Magnesium ZK60A-T6, with its advantageous properties, finds application in various industries. Here are some common applications of Magnesium ZK60A-T6:

  • Aerospace Industry: ZK60A-T6 is used in aerospace applications where weight reduction is crucial. It can be found in components such as aircraft frames, helicopter rotor hubs, and structural elements, contributing to the overall lightweight design and fuel efficiency of aircraft.
  • Automotive Industry: Magnesium ZK60A-T6 is utilized in the automotive industry to achieve weight savings and enhance fuel efficiency. It can be found in various components, including engine blocks, transmission cases, steering columns, and suspension parts.
  • Sporting Goods: ZK60A-T6 is employed in the manufacturing of sporting goods that require lightweight materials with high strength. Examples include bicycle frames, golf club heads, tennis racquets, and various other sporting equipment where weight reduction plays a significant role.
  • Electronics and Consumer Goods: Magnesium ZK60A-T6 can be used in electronic devices and consumer goods, particularly where lightweight and durable components are desired. It may be found in items such as laptop frames, camera bodies, handheld devices, and other consumer electronics.
  • Industrial Machinery: ZK60A-T6 is utilized in industrial machinery and equipment where weight reduction is advantageous without compromising strength and performance. It can be found in components such as machine frames, brackets, and structural parts.
  • Medical Equipment: Magnesium ZK60A-T6 has potential applications in the medical field, particularly in lightweight medical equipment and devices. It can be used in the manufacturing of surgical instruments, orthopedic implants, and other medical devices that benefit from its lightweight and biocompatible properties.
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