I would like to get as good as possible at TIG welding aluminum as I can in the next one to three months.
Does/can anyone…
I’m happy to also use this as a chance to get TIG welding up and running in full at the space if we don’t feel that it is already.
Any help appreciated!
Our current TIG setup does not allow for welding aluminium. We need a AC-capable TIG machine which can break through the oxidised aluminium layer (magic). I believe getting a fancier, more capable AC TIG welder isn’t too far away.
I learned a lot about welding (particularly with TIG welding, including AC TIG) through this guy on YouTube. I think he has another channel but I can’t find it (maybe I’m mistaken). I found his videos on the subject very straight forward and packed with a lot of useful details and a lot of real-world things I feel like most other channels don’t address. A few videos put a spin on things to avoid and look out for.
Like you Neil, I am very much into continuing to progress my TiG welding skills, particularly on thinner materials and stainless. Myself and Daniel have recently uploaded a risk assessment, which means we can now start TiG inductions.
The process and skill involved in welding aluminium are pretty much identical to welding steels. Those processes are transferable. There are many resources that can over complicate the issue. It is not complicated, but as you probably know requires practice.
The DC welder we have in the shop is on loan from Daniel. It doesn’t have a foot pedal and there is no gas flow adjustment. Although basic, it can weld mild, tool, chromoly, cast, stainless, inconel, titanium, brass, bronze and copper. However, as mentioned we need an AC DC machine to do aluminium and magnesium. Directors are happy to back a pledge drive for one and I want to run that as soon as…
This Old Tony has a YouTube channel and approaches TiG instructional in a very down to earth way. Start here https://youtu.be/svHI9nmV5nw?si=-qXr4tza8xvG9fVf and search his content for other TiG related vids.
For something more focused and in depth, try this: https://www.youtube.com/@PacificArcTigWelding
If you would like to get together I’m happy to share what I know. It would help as we are ramping up to do initial TiG inductions to promote it and support the pledge drive. Just let me know when…
This is great! I’ll dig into all the resources over the weekend. I have someone to practice Ali with at my current work studio, so can focus on other materials here
I’m also keen to learn.
Would it be helpful to start an induction waiting list?
That’s the plan @Afro_ben. Good to know there is interest. I shall look into setting this up sooner rather than later.
Adding my interest for a tig induction/ pledge drive. I will check out the vids you linked to prepare, cheers!
I’d also be really interested in pledge drive for this!
Will you be around this weekend at all to get me set up on the TIG machine? I’ve been practicing a bit at work but it’s not properly ventilated so I don’t want to do to much here.
Planning on being there this weekend. I’m looking at evenings atm. When’s good for you @nhjansen??
This evening would be great. I’ll be around either way, at least doing some MIG on my bike trailer. Thanks!
Yep. Let’s do it this evening then 
