Magnesium AE42-F, Die Cast,E FOUR

### **Product Datasheet: Magnesium AE42-F Die Cast Alloy** **Introduction** Magnesium AE42-F is a creep-resistant die casting alloy developed primarily for automotive applications where elevated temperature performance is required. The "AE" designation indicates that the alloying elements are Aluminum (A) and Rare Earths (E). The "42" denotes approximately 4% Aluminum and 2% Rare Earths. The "-F" temper signifies that it is in the as-fabricated condition, which for die casting, means the properties are achieved directly from the high-pressure die casting process without subsequent heat treatment. AE42 was a significant step in providing a better alternative to common alloy AZ91D for high-temperature applications. **Key Features** * **Good Creep Resistance:** Offers superior resistance to deformation under mechanical load at elevated temperatures (up to ~150-175°C / 300-350°F) compared to standard AZ and AM series alloys. * **Excellent Die Castability:** Exhibits excellent fluidity and low hot cracking tendency, making it suitable for producing thin-walled, complex components. * **Good Corrosion Resistance:** Provides corrosion resistance comparable to other standard magnesium die casting alloys. * **Good Strength-to-Weight Ratio:** Inherits the lightweight advantage of magnesium. --- #### **1. Chemical Composition (Weight %)** The nominal composition of AE42 conforms to the following standard limits: | Element | Content (%) | | :---------------- | :---------------------------------- | | **Aluminum (Al)** | 3.5 - 4.5 | | **Rare Earths (RE)** * | 2.0 - 3.0 | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 0.20 - 0.50 | | **Zinc (Zn)** | ≤ 0.20 | | **Silicon (Si)** | ≤ 0.05 | | **Copper (Cu)** | ≤ 0.04 | | **Iron (Fe)** | ≤ 0.004 | | **Nickel (Ni)** | ≤ 0.001 | | **Magnesium (Mg)** | Remainder | *Note: The rare earth mix is typically rich in Cerium (Ce) and Lanthanum (La).* --- #### **2. Physical Properties** | Property | Value | | :---------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | | **Density** | 1.79 g/cm³ (0.065 lb/in³) | | **Melting Point** | ~ 620 - 640°C (1150 - 1185°F) | | **Thermal Conductivity** | ~ 78 W/m·K | | **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion** | ~ 26.1 µm/m·K at 20-100°C | | **Modulus of Elasticity** | 45 GPa (6.5 x 10⁶ psi) | --- #### **3. Mechanical Properties (Typical for Die Cast Test Bars)** Properties are representative of separately die-cast test bars and provide a benchmark for the alloy's capability. **Room Temperature Properties:** | Property | Value | | :----------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- | | **Tensile Strength, Ultimate** | 230 MPa (33,000 psi) | | **Tensile Strength, Yield (0.2% Offset)** | 140 MPa (20,000 psi) | | **Elongation** | 10 % | | **Compressive Yield Strength** | 140 MPa (20,000 psi) | **Elevated Temperature Properties:** * **At 150°C (300°F):** * Tensile Strength: ~ 175 MPa (25,000 psi) * **Creep Strength:** Significantly better than AZ91D and AM60A at this temperature. --- #### **4. International Standards** Magnesium AE42 is covered by several international standards for die castings. * **ASTM:** **ASTM B94** - Standard Specification for Magnesium-Alloy Die Castings (Lists AE42 as a standard alloy). * **SAE:** **SAE J465** - Wrought and Cast Magnesium Alloys. * **EN/European:** **EN 1753** - Magnesium and magnesium alloys — Magnesium alloy ingots and castings. * **UNS:** **M14420** (Note: This is the specific UNS number for the AE42 composition). * **ISO:** **ISO 16220** - Magnesium and magnesium alloys — Magnesium alloy ingots and castings. --- #### **5. Product Applications** AE42's primary application is in automotive powertrain components where operating temperatures exceed the capability of more common alloys like AZ91D. * **Automotive Powertrain:** * **Transmission Cases and Housings:** Especially for automatic transmissions. * **Engine Components:** Oil pans, engine front covers, and intake manifolds. * **Transfer Cases:** For four-wheel-drive systems. * **Aerospace:** * **Non-Critical Engine Accessory Housings.** * **Industrial:** * **Housings for Power Tools** and other equipment that generates heat during operation. **Die Casting & Fabrication Notes:** * **Process:** Specifically designed for high-pressure die casting. * **Heat Treatment:** Not typically heat treated; used in the as-cast (F) condition. * **Machining:** Exhibits excellent machinability, typical of magnesium alloys. * **Corrosion Protection:** Die cast components require standard surface finishing for corrosion protection, such as chromate conversion coating, anodizing, or painting. --- **Disclaimer:** This information is for reference purposes only. Properties can vary significantly based on die casting parameters, component design, and wall thickness. The mechanical properties of an actual die-cast part will differ from those of a separately cast test bar. For new high-temperature applications, newer alloys like MRI 230D or MEZ often offer superior creep performance. Always consult the latest official material specifications and work closely with your die caster for component-specific design and validation.

Packing of Standard Packing: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 3268 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.