First few attempts at Aluminum (pics)

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Hey all,I just started doing some aluminum passes for the first time (no joints yet) and adding filler rod. I have a couple of questions. Please look at the pics and let me know why I am getting the crater at the end of the weld. I know on mild steel I can add a little more filler and back off the amp control and all is fine, but with aluminum, the crater always wants to stay. I read some where it has to do with how fast the aluminum cools, and that you should actually weld about 1/2 inch backward and fill the crater. Is this correct? Also, the aluminum I was welding on is 1/2 inch alum tubing (1/16 inch wall) - amp control set to 70 amps - I was using way too big of a filler rod because it was all I had (3/32) - I know I should be using 1/16. - which is my second question. Can the filler rod being too large actually make the pool harder to control. It just seems to me that the rod does not want to drip off and fuse to the pool as easily as smaller filler - Is this because the amperage is so low and the filler so large that it is hard to keep consistency? I also used my PT 185 pulser, although I don't really know what the exact purpose of it is yet, except that it helps prevent burn through and is easier to manipulate because it helps keep the metal a more conistent temperature, but as far as timing, I really don't see the point in that yet. Anyway, please critique and if anybody can answer my questions, thanks in advance!Also, I used a sharp blunt point with 2% Thiroated, because my manual says that is what I should use, not pure tungsten. - Although my machine is not an inverter, it still recommends this because of the ac technology it uses. Seemed to work fine. Attached ImagesLast edited by kshellrazor; 10-24-2005 at 09:00 PM.
Reply:what size tungsten are you using?  Try using 1\16 with the 1\16 wire.  As for the crater at the end of the weld you should be able to back off the heat just like steel, maybe ad a little filler at the end.
Reply:also, what alloy it the tubing?  Some of the alloys are not really weldable (2024).
Reply:It looks weldable, of course, my xray vision isn't what it used to be .  Just a thought...Keep adding filler on the way down and try a longer post-flow of gas.  Keep it under a blanket of argon until it cools a bit more.  Also, you can back step just a hair at the end of the bead as you let up on the heat.  I used to get that, but I forgot exactly what cured it.Probably beer....Last edited by smithboy; 10-25-2005 at 03:23 PM.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:I forgot to say it, but....those are looking pretty good.  Your technique has really improved since your earlier postings...not that long ago.  They are nice and evenly done.  Can you see inside the pipe?  How does the inside look?  Did you get any internal melting?Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Howdy!  Just wanted to say GOOD JOB!those look really good for first alloy welds!  better then alot you see on most mt bike frames. keep it up!  Brian Lee  Sparkeee24
Reply:Originally Posted by smithboyI forgot to say it, but....those are looking pretty good.  Your technique has really improved since your earlier postings...not that long ago.  They are nice and evenly done.  Can you see inside the pipe?  How does the inside look?  Did you get any internal melting?
Reply:hi k...well sometimes its inevatable...after you finish a bead ket your postflow linger for a bit .......2sec..hope this helps.....jimwww.arctekmarine.com
Reply:i'm also a trainee welder from the u.k and my lecturer has told me that only zirconiated or lanthiated tungstens should be used for a.c welding where thoriated or ceriated is used on d.c welding
Reply:I like your welds, But you still need to sit down with a seasoned TIG Welder an learn our secrets.
Reply:Originally Posted by MetalSculptorI like your welds, But you still need to sit down with a seasoned TIG Welder an learn our secrets.
Reply:So its been about a month since you've had you PT 185. Curious what you think about the machine, any likes/dislikes? Been looking at one for a while now, and im just not sure what to decide on.Last edited by Quattro; 12-05-2005 at 11:36 AM.
Reply:Kshell,if you season a tig weldor just right, they taste just like a spotted owl...otherwise, practice, reading, and occasional feedback will pretty much get you were ever you need/want to be.In addition, I also want to know your current thoughts on the machine.  I have started saving my pocket change....and, searching couches for loose change....I figure by the time I have enough money, they will be twice the current price...Last edited by smithboy; 12-05-2005 at 11:49 AM.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:To  all Future TIG weldersWhen you drove your first car/truck.  did you do it all by yourself or did someone instruct you ?  Please don't be offended by the the need to gain proper knowledge/experience from a TIG welder who knows our secrets of welding.I am trying to reduce your frustrations in learning to weld and you need to close up the hole at the end of your weld bead.  The hole will cause crack and failure of the weld.
Reply:Originally Posted by MetalSculptorTo  all Future TIG weldersWhen you drove your first car/truck.  did you do it all by yourself or did someone instruct you ?  Please don't be offended by the the need to gain proper knowledge/experience from a TIG welder who knows our secrets of welding.I am trying to reduce your frustrations in learning to weld and you need to close up the hole at the end of your weld bead.  The hole will cause crack and failure of the weld.
Reply:Originally Posted by QuattroSo its been about a month since you've had you PT 185. Curious what you think about the machine, any likes/dislikes? Been looking at one for a while now, and im just not sure what to decide on.
Reply:Originally Posted by smithboyKshell,if you season a tig weldor just right, they taste just like a spotted owl...otherwise, practice, reading, and occasional feedback will pretty much get you were ever you need/want to be.In addition, I also want to know your current thoughts on the machine.  I have started saving my pocket change....and, searching couches for loose change....I figure by the time I have enough money, they will be twice the current price...
Reply:Since I found this site I have spent hours  reading what you guys have had to say I take notes and try different things some of them work very well , I can honestly say since finding this site, my welding has has been looking allot better ,once you have the basics practice is the best thing for you, I am out of my area of expertise here so I don't have alot of helpful information to share, however.. I have owned and operated my own restaurant for almost 9yrs.. so I think I have something to add to this thread...SmithBoy is right if you season a tig welder just right it does taste like a spotted owl,heres how I prepare my tig welder, I have had good luck with this in the past, and with the holidays approaching we all should be planning our holiday meal, lightly coat your tig welder with olive oil,and apply a dry rub,I use my brisket rub the flavor profile of tig is similar to beef seems to work well, after you have rubbed you tig allow it to come to room temp before cooking this will cut your cook time down by hours.. slow cook it (I would suggest using a pit) around 250 for about 8hrs at that temp a good rule of thumb is 40minutes per pound( you want an internal temp of about 165 for medium rare) remove from cooker cover with foil and let sit for at least 15minutes ( this is called carry over cooking) this allows  it to finish cooking and the juices to move back toward the surface.. slice on the bias in about 1/2in strips be sure to slice across the grain.. slicing with the grain tends to make it stringy and a bit tough, serve with favva beans and a nice chianti if you prefer white wine I would suggest a sauvignon blanc... ENJOY
Reply:MetalSculptor,I don't think your suggestion is offensive or inappropriate, but it is lacking what a lot of folks are here for.  The point of a forum is open and honest discussion.  So far, your discussion has focused on two things, really....sit down with a seasoned tig weldor and visit airgas.  You have posted about 40 times and with only a couple of exceptions, this is your advice.  I think your message is clear.  Is there anything more you have to add, aside from maybe sitting down with a seasoned mig, stick or oxy/ace weldor and, of course, airgas can supply you with all your needs in those areas also?Metal working, welding and such are not part of a religion with high priests that hold some book of secrets.  It's a vocation with a set of learnable skills.  Some are hard, some are fairly easy.  If you actually do this stuff, you know this already.  There are very young folks on this forum that are quite accomplished and there are older folks who are just getting started (and vice versa).  Skill levels vary quite a bit, but most everyone here agrees that a lot of the info in this forum is helpful.  I, personally, have been welding since 1986 and I learn something new almost every day from this forum about the trade, techniques and equipment.  This forum may not be a perfect substitute for sitting down with a highly skilled weldor for a year-long course, but that's not the intention of the forum to begin with.  Look around at the posts that ask about how to get training.  No one suggests NOT to get training.  Everyone encourages it.  BUT...and here is the important part...we also provide information to the best of our ability for anyone who asks.  If you intend to REALLY participate here, try to get beyond this stuff you are doing right now.  You might have a lot to offer, and if you do, you might find that to be the biggest and most effective advertising for your business.  If I were looking for training or welding supplies, I would look to the folks that have been helpful in the past.  Not the ones who are secretive and strategic in their behavior.  The fact that you are getting the responses that you are indicates to me that you are currently doing more harm to your business than good.  Take it for what it's worth.Last edited by smithboy; 12-06-2005 at 10:54 AM.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Smithboy, my compliments on your well written and polite response to MetalSculptor, he really needs help professional help, and you have done him a huge favor.  I can't see how anyone could post such useless advice, in such a pomp-*** manner (I'm sure that's not spelled correctly, but I think it works).  I'll try to learn from you, and give Sculptor another chance.  I look forward to reading a Sculptor posting that contains some practical information, containing actual welding knowledge that is based on science and experience, but I won't be holding my breath while waiting.Also, compliments on your motto, "if it ain't broke,.....", there is wisdom in there, somewhere.
Reply:I agree with pulser. If we were to open an articulate weldor contest, smithboy gets my vote. think i'll have 'nuther beer
Reply:Hey smith, once again you dazzle me with genious beyond comprehension.  If it were me telling this guy where to stick and and how far in, well I think you kinda get the drift.  They dont call it talkin like a sailor for nuthin!   Still, them public speaking courses did you good.  Genghis Khan, I mean Metalsculptur, I have addressed you several times with the question of what are your qualifications, and why do you think they are enough to be what I beleive is rather negative.  No, it may not be negative in the straight sense, but you see when you go and give us confucius says... no one will listen.  Like Razor they will get all pissed off with you and ignore you without giving you a second of thought.  Is this your point?  If it is I will ask you to politely escort yourself away from this forum.  We dont need no more trolls.  Especially ones who just make the same dang lil one liners over and over again.  For all those who arent aware Smith never gets angery, frustrated, irritated or shows any other emotion except a willingness to teach and share his friendship.  Smith will even on occasion extend a frosty brew to a friend in need.  So when he becomes the one to tell you, or anyone on this forum they are out of line and their actions are unwanted, boy you done screwed up!  Unlike some of you, I dont feel bad if im offensive, derogatory, demeaning, innapropriate or anything else.  heck id be dissapointed inmyself if I werent.  BUt thats beside the point.  The real point here is that when I make suggestiions, dont matter how mean or cruel or how nice, people listen.  Why, cause when a man asks me a question I give them an answer.  I dont claim to be teh grand dragon of welding.  But if someone asks this ole country bumkin a question hes gonna answer it to the best of his ability.  And I wont go tell you something unless Its worked in my experience.  If I havent tried it but think it will work I tell ya that Ive never done it but Ive heard...   Further more, I have heard you Metal vulture telling people that they need to sit down with a seasoned welder and learn y'alls secrets.  Well were all sitting here right here right now I havent heard of, or seen one secret.   Is airgas a secret?  cause last I knew they were pretty well advertised.  Since Ive asked for your quals many times without a resonse, and I know you get emailed like I do when someone responds to your posts,  IM gonna PM you with this message.   And everyday you fail to respond Ill send this on another thread you have bposted to.  Hopefully Ill get a response of your qualifications, your experience, your secrets, and what makes you qualified to tell us all to sit down with a seasoned welder.IF it Catches...Let it Burn