What happens if you stick weld aluminum with AC?

admin

Since all the rods are labled for DC, I'm guessing it won't turn out great. What happens? 1. You can never start an arc2. The rod burns straight through the alu. 3. The weld never penetrates4. The weld looks fine, but will break as soon as a feather falls on it. 5. The weld works just fine on AC, it's just a bit more difficult."To tell which polarity to use go to the bathroom and pour some water down the drain. If it runs clockwise use straight polarity. If it runs counter-clockwise use reverse polarity. Or if it just gurgles use alternating current." -RandomDave
Reply:I use GTAW
Reply:I screwed around with some stick aluminum welding last year.   The rods were old, but I dried them out a bit and gave it a go.   I honestly can't remember what my setting were....I know I tried them allI just messed around with it for a hot second, I'd be interested in seeing some pics from guys with experiece in sticking aluminum!   I've looked for pics before and haven't found any.Here's my crap, I did a few t-fillets:browndogwelding.com@welderassassinMy Blog on The Fabricatorfacebook.com/BrownDogWelding
Reply:Tried it, didn't like it.  Much better results with DCEP and a lot more amperage than with steel of the same thickness.  Be prepared for 1/8 rod to go away in less than 10 seconds.
Reply:Centerline cracks there. I realize this is an old post.I tried some of those things a few years ago and ended up with pretty brutal results. The fumes from the flux smelled pretty damn corrosive.Then I jumped back onto my TIG machine and all was right with the world again.
Reply:Originally Posted by JoshfromsaltlakeCenterline cracks there. I realize this is an old post.I tried some of those things a few years ago and ended up with pretty brutal results. The fumes from the flux smelled pretty damn corrosive.Then I jumped back onto my TIG machine and all was right with the world again.
Reply:I played with it for a short bit, old crusty rods, and had to move quick as anything. Definately not a go to choice, but if it's all you had they could get you out of a bind with some practice. Attached ImagesI hate being bi-polar it's awsomeMy Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys
Reply:Originally Posted by SuperArcDang!!!! This is an old post. 2009!!!
Reply:@Mike,I knew you could stick weld aluminum, but never saw it done before.  That does not look too bad at all. Good job!GarLincoln Electric, Power MIG 256Hypertherm Powermax 45 Miller Dynasty 280DXSmith O/A torchGenesis of a welding table
Reply:I was only playing with some crusty old rods laying around. If I put a little more thought into it I could probably do alot better in time, thanks tho GAR  These suckers burn FAST bro, almost to the point of being hillarious I hate being bi-polar it's awsomeMy Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys
Reply:Originally Posted by weldermikeI was only playing with some crusty old rods laying around. If I put a little more thought into it I could probably do alot better in time, thanks tho GAR  These suckers burn FAST bro, almost to the point of being hillarious
Reply:Originally Posted by SuperArcMike, what polarity, machine and amp setting did you use?   Also, what size and brand rods were they?   You welds looked really good as far as SMAW aluminum goes.  I don't think ive ever seen better.