Hi,
I imagine this is a common question, if it's addressed in a FAQ or other reference material please point me to it. That said, I have a need to identify unknown aluminum alloys. I do not need to identify a specific alloy, only the major group.
For example, if I am given an aluminum casting to repair, it is essential to know which alloy group - Al-Si-Mg, Al-Si-Cu, Al-Zn, etc - was used, in order to select the correct process and filler material for welding. The same is true for wrought alloys.
Some alloys are not weldable by conventional (TIG, MIG) means, it might be asking a bit much to identify those specific alloys without sophisticated testing. In some cases, I have the luxury of obtaining a small amount of material to test. Common "unweldable" alloys such as 2024 and 7075 reveal themselves very quickly in practice.
I know that there is at least one testing kit available, it is sold on
I am not adverse to hitting the books, and I took the usual college chem classes for a sci major. Given time, I can wade through most anything. Now, with that background, here is my question: Can I assemble my own testing kit, and if so, how?
Thanks.
G.
p.s. Sorry for fake email, but I get enough spam already.