Stick weld Aluminum?

admin

I know this sounds like a dumb question, and I feel pretty dumb asking it. . . . but is it possible (or at all practical) to use a stick welder (SMAW) to weld Al?  My brother in law had his Dad pick up a cheap welder at a swap meet to dink around with, and the guy selling it says you can weld Al with it.  He even gave a handful of Al rod, although my Father in Law doesn't know if it had any flux coating on it, or if it was just straight filler rod a-la TIG.So what's the truth on SMAW and Al?  I'd like to tell my brother in law the no BS truth before he ruins something trying to use an incompatible welding process.Thanks in advance,BK
Reply:I have used it for AL before. It works...just not as good as other methods.
Reply:Yes, it works. It isn't for thin material.
Reply:should be an ad/dc welder on dc setting works good but is a dirty weld not good for seallin stuff