tungsten "question"

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i was wondering how the- brown tungsten(1% Zirconium) works for aluminum.I currently use -green( pure 100%) checked on price there is a big diffrence  and do you use straight argon.if not what do you use.                                                     thanks,BILL
Reply:anybody know this question
Reply:I bought a couple of new packs of brown tungstens at the local used tool place along with some other stuff several months ago. I tried the 1/8" ones a week or 2 ago and could not tell any difference between the green ones in the same diameter I've been using all along for aluminum. The balance control knob position which determines cleaning action vs: penetration has way more effect on the tungsten than which color(trace alloy) I use. My opinion! I also use straight Argon.Last edited by alanaker; 11-08-2006 at 10:15 AM.
Reply:This is good source of info on tungsten.http://www.diamondground.com/index.htmlFor aluminum, Argon, Helium, or Argon/Helium mix, no reactive additions such as Oxygen, CO2, or Hydrogen.  Helium runs at a higher arc voltage and helps transfer more heat so it is helpful for thicker aluminum.
Reply:i like to use 2% red end for everything..i've used it for 20 yrs and to me theres no need to change.....zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:I agree with zapster.  When I weld aluminum, I set my machine on reverse polarity to melt a ball on the end of the 2% thoriated tungsten, then go back to AC high freq. for the welding.
Reply:Originally Posted by riley mcmillanI agree with zapster.  When I weld aluminum, I set my machine on reverse polarity to melt a ball on the end of the 2% thoriated tungsten, then go back to AC high freq. for the welding.
Reply:Originally Posted by zapsterjust for laffs try welding aluminum with a sharp point right off the bat..let the ball form naturally as you weld..you'll see a big diffrence..in the overall weld...much better.....zap!
Reply:Originally Posted by alanakerI bought a couple of new packs of brown tungstens at the local used tool place along with some other stuff several months ago. I tried the 1/8" ones a week or 2 ago and could not tell any difference between the green ones in the same diameter I've been using all along for aluminum. The balance control knob position which determines cleaning action vs: penetration has way more effect on the tungsten than which color(trace alloy) I use. My opinion! I also use straight Argon.
Reply:I'm going to try the red tungstens on aluminum that zapster likes. Why not?
Reply:Originally Posted by wildb454thank you  for the advise  Ithink I will stick to green (pure)   BILL
Reply:Originally Posted by pulserI was taught AC aluminum with 2% thoriated and I can deal with the splitting issue.  If the splitting issue gives you head aches, there are still other (better IMO) choices than pure.  Also, with the modern variable frequency inverters, you don't need to ball the tungsten, so 2% thoriated is really not an issue."