A couple aluminum MIG questions

admin

Ok, our design guy posed a MIG aluminum question to me today. We are quoting a hydronic pump package and it is going to be installed on a roof via helicopter. They are looking at ways to cut down the weight by using alum. instead of carbon steel frame.  I beam, C channel, plate, angle, etc, etc.... I have only fiddled w/some TIG alum and was a helper on MIG aluminum job many, many moons ago. So I was unable to give him some definite answers on a couple things. Hoping some of you could help out and point out any mistakes I have.One was; is there a certificate required for welding an aluminum frame together. We will be ETL certifying the package.The rest has to do with our equipment.  This is what I remember and have found in 'searches'.  I have some 220VAC  ESAB MIG welders.  No high freq. It seems that is not a problem though.  Although I wish I could make the case for a new fat daddy welding machine.  I am thinking it would be best to use the spool gun attachment w/small rolls as opposed to a long whip. Check the drive rollers for U shaped grove and proper wire dia. Run 100% argon. It appears I need to set it up for spray arc, but I have seen many different suggestions out there. I have plenty of ss wire wheels for cleaning. I do remember how particular aluminum was as far as cleanliness goes. They've only been used on stainless. I'm not sure about making bevels. Will a flapper disc be alright to use? Thanks in advance for any tips.