TIG Aluminum Test Beads

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I got some test welds done tonight and they look better here than in the photo.The 5356 ran a little smoother and matched the color of the aluminum more and the 4043 was a little more shiny, but no grains on either.I tried a fillet weld on some 1/8" and destroyed that because I did not moved fast enough.The test welds in the photos were on 200A, 1/4" plate, 3/32 Brown tung., Gas Lens, 3/32" filler both 5356 and 4043, cleaning was at 50% except on the last two, I think they were 25% clean / 75% penetration.  I forget.The 3rd and last welds were 4043, you can tell they shined more.  What is the main difference in the 4043 and 5356?  Tell me your thoughts... (I know the first bead was a little cold on the start) Attached ImagesLast edited by malich; 03-11-2008 at 10:21 PM.Build a Barstool Racer at BarFlyRacers.com!
Reply:4043 is an all around type filler when you dont know the exact type of aluminum you are welding on.  If you ever watch the old show on discovery channel on american hot rod when they built the "aluma-tub"  That kid welded on the belly pan brackets with 4043.  Know how i know?  I saw the car and was looking underneath and the brackets all had a brownish black smudge covering them, which is the effect of anodizing the 4000 series aluminum.5356 is good for the 5000 series of aluminum, but is susceptible to stress corrosion.  Ive noticed when using this filler that it flows alot better than 4043 and the final bead is flatter.check out this linkhttp://www.secowarwick.com/pressrel/articles/aluminummetallurgy.htm
Reply:The beads are great, now weld 2 things together.David Real world weldin.  When I grow up I want to be a tig weldor.
Reply:Originally Posted by David RThe beads are great, now weld 2 things together.David
Reply:Ok, I just called the steel supplier and I am going to pickup some 3" x 1/8" flat 6063 this weekend to practice on.  Is a $1.40 per foot a good price and how is 6063 to work with?  It is a standard alloy that is used to weld?Thanks!Build a Barstool Racer at BarFlyRacers.com!