Microstructure evolution and tensile properties of friction-stir-welded AM50 magnesium alloy

Friction stir welding (FSW) technique was utilized to weld cast AM50 magnesium alloy plates. The microstructures in the base metal (BM) and the weld joint were observed by optical microscopy. The mechanical properties were investigated by using hardness measurement and tensile test, and the fractographs were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the microstructure of the base material was characterized by bulk primary α phase, α-matrix and intermetallic compound β (or Mg17Al12), and the weld nugget exhibiting recrystallized microstructure consists of α-matrix and β phase. The grain size in the weld is smaller than that in the base metal. The hardness of the weld joint is improved but the tensile strength and yield strength, as well as the elongation to failure of the base material decline. The fracture of BM has a rougher surface with more dimples, which is a characteristic of the ductile fracture, whereas the fracture on the nugget reveals a quasi-cleavage feature. The ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the FSWed AM50 are 86.2% and 94.0% of those of the base metal, respectively.