Magnesium wrought alloy series: ZK61M Magnesium Alloy—High-Strength Lightweight Material

I. Introduction

ZK series alloys mainly refer to Mg-Zn-Zr series magnesium alloys, currently one of the most widely used wrought magnesium alloys, of which the representative is ZK61 magnesium alloy. When its tensile strength exceeds 300 MPa after high-temperature forming, cooling, and artificial aging treatment, it has good plasticity, corrosion resistance, and machinability. It is also applicable to manufacture large forgings with complex shapes.

II. Chemical Composition of ZK61M

ZK61M magnesium alloy contains zinc and zirconium as the main alloying elements. The zinc content ranges from 5% to 6%, which is close to the solid solubility of zinc in magnesium alloys. The increase in zinc content contributes to solid solution strengthening. However, when the zinc content is greater than 1%, the tendency of hot cracking increases. The zirconium element plays a crucial role in refining the grain size, which boosts mechanical properties such as tensile yield and elongation. Additionally, zirconium reduces hot cracking and enhances corrosion resistance, high-temperature resistance, and creep resistance, thereby expanding the application scope of ZK61M magnesium alloy.

III. Physical Properties of ZK61M

ZK61M magnesium alloy demonstrates the following physical and mechanical properties:

• Tensile Strength: 310–360 MPa
• Elastic Modulus: Approximately 45 GPa
• Thermal Conductivity: Around 100 W/(m·K)
• Lightweight Advantage: Weight reduction of over 30% compared to conventional alloys
• Excellent Electromagnetic Shielding: Prevents signal interference in electronic devices
• Corrosion Resistance: Resistant to oils, alkalis, and high-temperature environments

IV. Applications of ZK61M

ZK61M magnesium alloy is a typical zirconium-containing magnesium alloy, derived from the foreign Grade ZK60A with minor adjustments. It is recognized as one of the magnesium alloys with the highest strength currently available. Its broad applications include:

A. Automotive Industry

ZK61M is a key material for the energy-saving upgrade of automobiles due to its lightweight advantage and heat dissipation performance. It is applied in clutch housings, gearboxes, body components, and functional parts such as air conditioner casings and sensors. Racing suspension systems and transmission components also benefit from its high specific strength and impact resistance, improving dynamic performance.

B. Electronics Industry

Thanks to its excellent electromagnetic shielding and heat dissipation efficiency, ZK61M is used for electronic device casings. It allows outer shells to be lightweight yet structurally strong. Its thermal conductivity surpasses that of some aluminum alloys, making it suitable for heat dissipation modules.

C. Industrial Machinery

In industrial applications, ZK61M is widely used for lightweight structural parts and corrosion-resistant components. Its high stiffness and shock absorption properties optimize equipment stability. Its chemical resistance makes it applicable to parts in chemical equipment that come into contact with oils or alkaline media.

D. Sports and Medical Equipment

In high-end sports equipment, ZK61M replaces aluminum alloy or carbon fiber to enhance performance. In medical devices, it strengthens portability through lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for modern medical applications.

E. New Energy Field

ZK61M plays a crucial role in improving energy efficiency, making it a strategic material in the development of sustainable and high-performance energy systems.

V. Conclusion

ZK61M magnesium alloy, with its superior mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and multifunctional properties, is a versatile material widely applied across the automotive, electronics, industrial machinery, sports, medical, and new energy fields. Its combination of lightweight advantage, heat dissipation efficiency, and structural strength positions it as one of the most promising materials for future engineering and industrial applications.

Learn more about Rare Earth–Magnesium Alloys