Magnesium ZK61A-T6 (UNS M16611)
ZK61A-T6 is a magnesium alloy that is commonly used in aerospace and military applications. It is known for its high strength, lightweight, and good corrosion resistance.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Magnesium | 92.1% | 93.9% |
| Copper | 0.10% | |
| Nickel | 0.01% | |
| Zinc | 5.5% | 6.5% |
| Zirconium | 0.60% | 1.0% |
| Residuals | 0.30% | |
The following table provides a list of magnesium ZK61A-T6 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 1830 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | 310 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 195 MPa |
| Shear Strength | 180 MPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 17 GPa |
| Elongation at Break in 50 mm | 10% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.35 |
| Brinell Hardness 500 kg load, 10 mm ball | 70 |
| Knoop Hardness Converted from Brinell | 93 |
| Vickers Hardness Converted from Brinell | 80 |
| Machinability | 100% |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 520 - 635 °C |
| Solidus | 520 °C |
| Liquidus | 635 °C |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 1084 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 27 1/°C |
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 ZK61A-T6
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Lower Wear Resistance |
| High Strength | Flammability |
| Excellent Machinability | Limited Temperature Range |
| Good Corrosion Resistance | Cost |
| Good Creep Resistance |
Applications of Magnesium ZK61A-T6
Magnesium ZK61A-T6, with its favorable combination of lightweight and high strength properties, finds application in various industries. Some common applications of Magnesium ZK61A-T6 include:
- Aerospace: The aerospace industry utilizes Magnesium ZK61A-T6 for lightweight structural components in aircraft and spacecraft. It can be found in parts such as aircraft frames, brackets, panels, and engine components.
- Automotive: The automotive sector benefits from the lightweight nature of Magnesium ZK61A-T6 to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It is used in the manufacturing of engine blocks, transmission cases, steering components, and various structural parts.
- Sporting Goods: Magnesium ZK61A-T6 is employed in the production of sporting goods due to its lightweight characteristics. It can be found in bicycles, golf club heads, tennis racquets, and other equipment where weight reduction is crucial.
- Electronics: The alloy’s good machinability and castability make it suitable for electronic device housings, frames, and connectors, where weight reduction and electromagnetic shielding are important considerations.
- Defense and Military: Magnesium ZK61A-T6 is used in defense applications for its lightweight properties and resistance to deformation. It can be found in military vehicles, weapons systems, and armor components.
- Industrial Equipment: The alloy’s strength and castability make it useful for manufacturing machinery, tools, and equipment, such as die-casting molds, industrial frames, and brackets.
- Medical Devices: Magnesium ZK61A-T6 is employed in the medical field for lightweight and biocompatible applications. It can be used in the manufacturing of surgical instruments, orthopedic implants, and medical equipment casings.