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Abstract
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The welding of thick-section magnesium aerospace components demands welding techniques that minimize microstructural alteration to preserve base metal integrity. While Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is a accessible method, its feasibility for joining thick as-cast pure magnesium, a common precursor to aerospace alloys, remains inadequately explored. This study investigates the viability of multi-pass TIG welding for 10 mm thick as-cast pure magnesium. Experimental results demonstrated complete joint penetration and a sound surface morphology devoid of hot cracking. Metallographic analysis revealed a characteristic dendritic weld zone and a critically narrow heat-affected zone (HAZ). However, quantitative analysis identified porosity, concentrated in the weld root attributed to the high heat input and challenges in impurity control during multi-pass welding. This work confirms the potential of TIG welding for joining thick magnesium sections but underscores that achieving defect-free welds requires precise optimization of process parameters to mitigate porosity. The findings provide a foundational basis for developing repair protocols for aerospace-grade magnesium castings.
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