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
formatting link
The proprietor apparently doesn't believe in givinganything away; where I am able to compare prices for identical items sold
there vs. other sources, he charges a 60-100% premium. I imagine that the
test kit, at $700, is no exception. Not that I begrudge him a profit, but
there is the concept of "value" to consider...
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.