Aluminium welding?

[theo]

Hi
Can anyone advise me on where to get some basic training to weld aluminium
for a boatbuilding project and also what type of welder I would need.(I am in Southampton U.K)I would need to be able to do basic tack welding for this project and would get a welder in to do the actual welding.
Thanks

 

[matt1978]

Try Wellington Welding in Southampton.

They maybe able to help, ask for John.

I think there maybe some tech colleges around the area too, who may do courses.

Ideally you would want a Pulsed mig (Maybe hire one from Welly) or a standard mig with spool on gun.

How thick is the Aluminium you will want to weld/tack?

 

[theo]

Thanks for the info.
The plate is anywhere between 4 mm and 10mm but mostly 6mm.
Regards
Theo

 

[Superbad]

Have a go yourself. I haven't exactly been successful but I'm getting there. And I'm using a mig.

 

[runnach]

Thanks for the info.
The plate is anywhere between 4 mm and 10mm but mostly 6mm.
Regards
Theo

For a project as large as a boat, I would suggest as Matt stated, a spool and gun, with at least 5 metre whip, saves lots of time moving plant around. Will be fine for 3mm up. As already mentioned, try to seek out a course, MIG on carbon is a fairly easy beast for a novice, aluminium is a totally different beast to get to grips with.

Good luck with your project.........