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Can aluminum be arc welded with rod?

Got to thinking, since I already have a big AC rod welder, is there a way to stick weld aluminum, or is TIG my only choice for aluminum? I ask because I'm going to buy one more welder before my stable is full, and want to make the best choice.

I'd considered a Miller or Lincoln TIG machine for about $2500-3000.00, but I'm not sure if TIG's will weld steel. If yes, I can justify replacing my rod welder with one, but if not, I hate to spring for that much machine and not be able to do steel with it as well, and have it sit around waiting for aluminum or something small...know what I mean?

Ronnie

Reply to
Ronnie Lyons, Meridian, Idaho
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Reply to
Marty

Yes you can stick weld aluminum. It works, and I have done it. It is far from my first choice for aluminum, but it does work.

TIG welds everything metal.

Reply to
Ernie Leimkuhler

Many TIG welders also have a stick functions. The Miller Synchrowaves have both TIG and stick along with choice of AC or DC.

Reply to
Gary Brady

You can gas weld aluminium just fine.

Brian

Reply to
Brian

There is no better way to weld it. Or stainless. Or pewter (yes, I've done it). Or any other weldable metal.

I have a Thermal Arc 250GTSW TIG machine which I use for almost all my welding. (I occasionally have a job for my small O/A rig.) And, BTW, my TIG is the nicest, smoothest stick welder I have ever used. This is handy when I have an outdoor job and it's breezy.

Ted

Reply to
Ted Edwards

I have the Thermal Arc 190GTS and absolutely love it. I do mostly TIG but am trying to learn stick welding. I only wish that it was AC also. The auto-sensing power supply is nice when I want to do a light job and only have 110 volts available. As I get older I really appreciate the light weight. :-)

I have never pushed it to its limits but expect that I will soon. I need to weld some 3/8" steel plates with beads about 4" long. Do you think this machine will handle it? I suspect that I should use stick for this, but would appreciate advice.

Alan

Reply to
Alan Frisbie

Thanks for the great input. Gives me a new direction to go on. Ronnie

Reply to
Ronnie Lyons, Meridian, Idaho

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