The properties of of this alloy mean it is well suited for use as feedstock material used to machine high performance components, especially those associated with elevated temperature performance.
Designs in Elektron 43 can be 20% to 30% lighter than a corresponding aluminium design. This alloy is available as rolled plate, forging feedstock and extruded bar, section and profile. Elektron 43 is an optimised wrought evolution of the original casting alloy, Elektron WE43.
Elektron 43 has undergone extensive flammability testing by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA have shown that the use of Elektron 43 in aircraft seat frames does not reduce the level of safety of the aircraft when compared to heavier aluminium seat components.
T5 properties for extruded Elektron 43 are dependent upon extruded profile. Tensile strength values up to 300 MPa 0.2% PS (43.5 ksi); 375 MPa UTS (54.4 ksi); and elongation of 11% have been demonstrated.
Extruded bar – Longitudinal
Extruded bar – Transverse
Extruded bar – Fatigue properties ASTM E466 axial fatigue
R=0.1 at 50 million cycles = 195 MPa
Other R ratios are shown in the graph below.
Plate
Elektron 43 rolled plate is available and has specification AMS 4371.
Forging
Elektron 43 is a high strength alloy that responds well to forging.
Machining
Elektron 43, like all magnesium alloys, machines faster than any other metal.
Corrosion resistance
Corrosion rate < 30 mpy
Surface treatment
Elektron®
43 can be anodised with treatments including: Keronite, Tagnite and MagOxid, amongst others.
Conversion coatings that are Hexavalent chromium free are also available. These include:
- Alodine 160/161, Surtec 650, Metalast TCP-HF
- Oxsilan MG 0611, Gardobond X4729, MagPass
Like all magnesium alloys, Elektron 43 can be painted or coated using conventional techniques following pre-treatment.
