The influence of casting defects on fatigue resistance of elektron 21 magnesium alloy

The Mg-RE alloys are attractive, constructional materials, especially for aircraft and automotive industry, thanks to combination of low density, good mechanical properties, also at elevated temperature, and good castability and machinability. Present paper contains results of fatigue resistance test carried out on Elektron 21 magnesium alloy, followed by microstructural and fractographical investigation of material after test. The as-cast material has been heat treated according to two different procedures. The fatigue resistance test has been conducted with 10⁶ cycles of uniaxial, sine wave form stress between 9 MPa and 90 MPa. Fractures of specimens, which ruptured during the test, have been investigated with scanning electron microscope. The microstructure of specimens has been investigated with light microscopy. Detrimental effect of casting defects, as inclusions and porosity, on fatigue resistance has been proved. Also the influence of heat treatment's parameters has been described.