Ring-supported friction stir welding enables plasticity for AZ31B magnesium alloy joints

Ring-supported friction stir welding (RS-FSW) was developed for AZ31B magnesium alloys, employing an extended stirring pin and synchronised ring-shaped support block to reduce texture intensity. This configuration expanded the stir zone while limiting heat dissipation, promoting dynamic recrystallisation and weakening basal texture. The joints exhibited improved mechanical properties (ultimate tensile strength: 228.6 ± 3.2 MPa, yield strength: 123.7 ± 2.4 MPa, elongation: 8.3 ± 0.2%) with fracture location shifting from SZ-side to SZ-centre due to reduced texture intensity, thereby mitigating strain localisation and enhancing plasticity.