Articles & Podcast Episodes

Welding 2000 Series Aluminum: Essential Techniques and Tips for Success

2000 series aluminum includes high-strength aerospace alloys mixed with copper. These alloys have heat sensitivity, making welding challenging. Friction welding and certain arc processes can enable joining. Resistance spot welding works for specific alloys. Specialized techniques are necessary for effective welding and stress removal. Before starting, ensure proper preparation of the materials. Clean the surfaces … Read more

Welding A356-T6 Aluminum: Techniques, Filler Alloys, and Strength Insights

Welding A356-T6 aluminum involves managing the heat-affected zone (HAZ), which can lower mechanical properties. Popular methods are Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). Selecting the right filler metals, like 4043, is crucial for achieving strong welds. Consider heat treatment for improved performance. Suitable filler alloys for A356-T6 include ER4047 and … Read more

Welding Aluminum All Day: Health Risks, Dangers, and Effective Solutions

Exposure to aluminum welding fumes can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Long-term exposure may result in metal fume fever, causing symptoms like cough, chills, and muscle aches. To reduce health risks, wear proper safety gear and ensure good ventilation while working. Another risk involves potential accidents in the workplace. Slips, trips, and falls … Read more

Welding 954 Aluminum Bronze: Essential Tips for Stronger Joints and Techniques

To weld 954 Aluminum Bronze, use nickel aluminum bronze filler wire to prevent cracking. Ideal methods are MIG and TIG welding; avoid oxyacetylene techniques. This alloy has strong tensile strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and is commonly used in bearings, valves, and pumps. Choose the appropriate filler material that matches the 954 aluminum bronze composition. Typically, … Read more

Welding 80/20 Aluminum: The Best Choice for Your T-Slot Building System?

Welding 80/20 aluminum involves joining thin aluminum sections, often made from 6061-T6 or 7075 series. It requires removing anodized surfaces to ensure a strong bond. This aluminum offers excellent corrosion resistance. The aluminum T-slot design allows for flexible framing systems, making reconfiguration easy for diverse applications. The ease of welding 80/20 aluminum simplifies assembly processes. … Read more

Welding 7075 Series Aluminum: Techniques, Challenges, and Comparisons with Other Alloys

Welding 7075 series aluminum presents challenges due to phase segregation. When heated, the combination of aluminum, zinc, magnesium, and copper can flow unevenly. This causes structural weaknesses and often results in cracks along the weld seam. Proper technique and knowledge are crucial for successful welding. However, welding 7075 is not without difficulties. Its susceptibility to … Read more