Articles & Podcast Episodes

TIG welding aluminum overhead needs careful technique. Control heat to prevent the weld puddle from dropping. Keep the weld area clean and use a sharp electrode. Adjust the electrode angle for better control. With the right setup and technique, overhead welding can be as effective as flat or horizontal positions. Remember to follow safety tips … Read more

Oxy-acetylene welding of aluminum (OAW) uses a neutral flame to melt aluminum. It requires flux to prevent oxidation during the welding process. Welders use a filler rod, typically pure aluminum or 5% silicon. Although not the top choice today, OAW played a key role during World War II for joining aluminum parts. Next, prepare the … Read more

Pulsed laser welding uses high-energy laser pulses to join aluminum, especially industrial pure aluminum. This method reduces porosity and thermal cracks. It is suitable for thin aluminum sheets but needs careful speed control. The advantages of pulsed lasers include precision and effectiveness in creating high-quality welds for aluminum. Adjusting the peak power is essential, as … Read more

You must remove the PVC coating before TIG welding aluminum. The coating can burn and release smoke, which can weaken the weld. Clean metal is crucial for a strong bond. Use proper tools to safely strip the coating, especially along the edges, to ensure effective heat retention and good corrosion resistance during the welding process. … Read more

Quenching aluminum after welding requires heating it to the solution heat treatment temperature and then quickly cooling it in water. This process helps dissolve alloying elements and restores strength. However, welded aluminum can lose up to 40% of tensile strength and 50% of yield strength in the Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ). Proper techniques are crucial to … Read more

Pulse arc welding aluminum involves a technique called pulsed MIG welding. This process features effective heat control, leading to low spatter and high-quality welds. It reduces heat input, which minimizes distortion and enhances weld integrity. Key welding settings, such as arc length and pulse frequency, help achieve successful outcomes. In addition, pulse arc welding is … Read more

Spot welding aluminum poses problems due to the low melting point of aluminum alloys. This can cause the sheet materials to stick to the electrodes. To address this, regular electrode cleaning and tip dressing are crucial. Additionally, achieving a high current and very short weld time is necessary to avoid damage to the materials. However, … Read more

Aluminum welding with a spool gun can lead to issues like splatter and porosity. Use 4043 or 5356 wire based on your needs. Set the right heat and wire speed. Adjust voltage and wire feed for a stable arc. Regular practice can reduce defects and improve overall weld quality. One common issue is incomplete penetration. … Read more

TIG welding aluminum often causes issues like poor gas coverage, wrong polarity, and lack of fusion. A thick oxide layer can hinder the process, as it melts at a much higher temperature than aluminum. Common mistakes include improper puddle size, incorrect arc length, and not using the right electrode size. Cleaning the surface is essential … Read more

Tungsten balls when welding aluminum because the Electrode Positive (EP) portion of the AC Cycle transfers more heat to the tungsten electrode than to the aluminum. This excess heat causes melting and forms a ball at the tip of the tungsten electrode. This affects the weld quality and stability during the welding process. Moreover, inadequate … Read more