TIG Aluminum penetration vs cleaning

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So I have been trying to refine my technique with aluminum and have been practicing quite a bit. I have a Lincoln precision TIG 275. I started with the AC balance on auto and then when I was trying to weld some 3/8 plate set it to max penetration and really liked how it did so I left it. I have been practicing welding beer cans together, sheet metal of varying thickness and 3/8" plate. Tonight I set it back to auto and couldn't stand the way it behaved on the cans I was welding. Anyway I have been wondering what settings other people use and in what circumstances. I think most of the alum I have is pretty clean, I think the plate is 6061. I haven't tried any cast yet so maybe I would want more cleaning on that or other dirtier aluminum. Anyway I'd love to hear what settings people use for what metals and what situations.Not perfect but I'm pretty happy with my progress. Now I wanna start taking some classes. Too bad the closest community college that offers welding is an hour away
Reply:Originally Posted by yoshimitsuspeedI haven't tried any cast yet so maybe I would want more cleaning on that or other dirtier aluminum. (
Reply:Originally Posted by TensaitekiA lot of people get confused about what is meant when the electrode positive cycle of the AC welding arc is referred to as "cleaning".The 'cleaning' action only  applies to the inevitable thin layer of aluminum oxide, not  dirt, oil, paint, corrosion, or other contaminants.All the electrode positive "cleaning" in the world won't do you any good if the aluminum isn't otherwise clean.As far as your original question, I almost always use 65-70% DCEN. I work on the principle that if the aluminum is not clean enough to weld with only 30-35% 'cleaning' its not clean enough to weld at all.