welding thin to thick, proper pre-heat?

admin

Im looking for a few tips on welding thick aluminum to thin aluminum. around what temperature to heat the thicker pieces when working in these conditions.welding 3/8" plate to 1/16" tubing, and 1/2" plate to 1/16 tubing...Lincoln Square Wave 175 TIGLincoln 110v flux core welder (my 1st)Clarke 180EN MIG
Reply:250-350°F should do it.
Reply:Hey sen2two,I do some of that type welding for my company at home since we don't have an alum. setup at work. I have had excellent success with a 350* preheat of the thicker piece. Also, the parts I do are a casting for the thick part &  T6061, 1.5" angle X .125" thick welded together.DennyComplete Welding/Machine/Fab. ShopMobile UnitFinally retired*Moderator*"A man's word is his honor...without honor there is nothing.""Words are like bullets.... Once they leave your muzzle, you cannot get them back."
Reply:thanks! ill go with 350* and adjust from there if need be...also, should i make a jig to keep the 3/8" or 1/2" thick piece from warping. or should it be fine?what im doing is making an intake manifold for my car. so the thick plate is for the flange (6061) and the tubing is for the runners (also, 6061)Lincoln Square Wave 175 TIGLincoln 110v flux core welder (my 1st)Clarke 180EN MIG