Aluminum welding

[redvan]

Hi,
I've come to the conclusion that aluminum can be MIG welded using a basic MIG welder with the proper wire and tip, is this true?

I have a Lincoln WeldPac that I've been teaching myself to use for around the house projects and tinkering, now I wish to do some thin aluminum welding and although I can get supplies for my machine; tips and wire, I'm just not sure it can be done with my machine. My manual does not mention it at all.

 

[W4yne]

Hi, have you been to the Lincoln website? I watched a video demonstration a while back of a Lincoln spool gun being used to weld aluminium.

http://www.bing.com/images/search?q...36569AA04A0FB4A2FD0540759723E&FORM=IGRE4#x0y0

 

[matt1978]

In theory, you are right. It is possible, but whether its practical is another story. You say thin Alu, how thin?

 

[redvan]

matt,
.125

 

[shenion]

You will need pure argon gas for welding aluminum. I'd also recommend 0.035 4043 wire as it feeds easier than 0.030.

1/8" is a lot for a WeldPac (140A?) You will be running it full out. Expect a veru high wire speed; use a push method and torch moves twice as fast as you are used to.

 

[redvan]

Well, it doesn't look like my machine is capable of Al welding.

Despite the advice, I purchased the materials; .030 tips and wire, and gave it a shot without gas.(Mine doesn't support gas hookup.)

Well, it wasn't a pretty sight but it was a learning experiance.
I almost feel foolish for even attempting it.

Red.

 

[Shox Dr]

There are two type of lesson;

That was an expensive lesson.

If you had taken Shenion's advise above, advising you need Argon Gas. Then that would have been a cheap lesson.

So your lesson for today is; Advise is free, sometimes it's worth taking



Welcome to the forum by the way. Prepare for lots of free/cheap lessons