A Layman's Guide to Aluminum Welding
Aluminum Welding as the terms suggests utilizes aluminum during the welding process.
Here are a few simple rules concerning Aluminum arc welding:
First, cleanliness is the key. Aluminum is considered as one of those metals that are highly susceptible to airborne contaminants; thus, extra measures must be employed to clean it prior to the welding process.
In cleaning the aluminum, the following materials must be prepared: a) solvents or the correct type of wire brush preferably that made of stainless steel; and b) etching solutions. The brush must be particularly clean and must not have been used on other metals such as carbon steel.
The cleaning process begins by brushing lightly the etching solutions in the aluminum. Take note that only one direction must be employed in brushing in order to ensure removal of the dirt.
Brushing the aluminum roughly is not advisable since it may cause more difficulty in removing the dirt.
To further ensure cleanliness of the weld, a degreaser may also be applied prior to the welding process.
Second, aluminum is relatively light compared to other metals. Therefore, it can both be welded and warped easily. Experts suggest two methods in avoiding the warping of this metal during the welding process: a) use of a so-called "heatsink;" and b) pre-heating.
Based on common experience, heat travels as fast as lightning in aluminum-made materials so any other material may be used as a heat sink in order to divert much of the heat away from those areas that will not be welded.
Pre-heating, on the other hand, is also recommended by experts. Heating at a maximum of approximately 230F is claimed to prevent weld cracking. Tack welds may come in handy during this procedure.
Experts also recommend that welders employ the above pre-heating procedure in welding a thick aluminum into a thin piece.
Third, the entire process must be finished as fast as possible. As mentioned previously, aluminum conducts heat easily. Therefore, if the welding process is slow, the material will more likely suffer excessive burns, which will in turn affect its aesthetic appeal.
Fourth, argon is a good shielding gas. The secret to producing cleanly welded surfaces is the shielding gas that wards off airborne contaminants. Argon is an inert gas that provides such kind of shield.
Indeed, above rules are quite important to note in Aluminum welding considering especially the extra care needed in handling this light material.
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