As a side note, DO NOT use brake cleaner to clean anything you weld, it can put off severely toxic gas that can kill you! I havent used a spool gun in years, but yes, welding aluminum in any way shape or form is MUCH more picky of the variables..... Good Luck.
Rudy
Results 11 to 17 of 17
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11-07-2010, 12:19 AM #11
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T-4 Paraplegic, Runnin' the Pedal With my elbow, now trying to get used to a momentary switch.......
Journeyman Millwright, Local 1102, Detroit, Michigan (Disabled)
Syncrowave 200
Coolmate 1
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11-07-2010, 06:20 AM #12
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You nailed it! It was actually very windy today. I forgot to mention that. I was trying to weld between big gusts, but that was difficult to do and I could hear the weld sizzle and pop a little when the wind picked up.
Originally Posted by Diverdude
Those are great looking welds you did. I really need to get my paws on some thicker material.
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11-07-2010, 06:24 AM #13
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It would seem that way, but I'm using 100% argon. I think the problem with the soot is my poor metal prep in combination with the gusty wind. I forgot to mention that important part. Originally Posted by shovelon
Point taken. Thanks for the input. Originally Posted by RudyOnWheels
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11-09-2010, 10:22 AM #14
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Are you pushing the weld or dragging it?
Kevin Schuh
Service Technician
Miller Electric Mfg. Co.
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11-09-2010, 10:41 AM #15
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You are the first to mention this!!!! Push the weld........you get gas coverage that way...Dragging will cause black stuff... Just my experience......... Originally Posted by Miller Kevin
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11-09-2010, 08:45 PM #16
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You will find that Aluminum is much more finicky about gas than steel. Even a light gust from a fan will screw it up. Originally Posted by Lindley
"The only source of knowledge is experience." Albert Einstein
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11-10-2010, 11:41 AM #17
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Push or pull?
Are you pushing or pulling the weld? With aluminum, a pushing technique puts the shielding gas out in front. Also, as mentioned, try moving faster. I have the PP+ and the Spoolmate 100 and they work great. But yes, it does take practice.
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