PDA

View Full Version : Adding a spool gun to my current welder?


JMcDonald
05-11-2007, 01:07 AM
I currently own a Chicago Electric "Dual Mig 151" welder. I bought an OxyAcetylene Setup mainly so Id be able to weld Aluminum, but I am concerned about my success in Al with this setup (not only the ability to lay down a decent bead, but the effects of the heat input into the Al, and the structural integrity of the weld).

Question: Is there a way to convert my MIG to use a spoolgun or anything like that?


If not, and I dont get the O/A to work with Al like Id hoped, then Ill just save up a bit more and either get a new Spool Gunned MIG or a TIG.

phila.renewal
05-11-2007, 09:20 AM
I started learning MIG welding with the same machine you have.

It will feed aluminum -- I've run plenty of 4043 aluminum wire through it -- no real problems. The liner is some sort of plastic or vinyl that is OK for Al.

Make sure your tip is one size larger than the wire.

JMcDonald
05-11-2007, 11:29 AM
Hmm...

Is Argon the universal gas for welding Al (with MIG, TIG, etc)? If so, then maybe Ill just buy an argon tank and try it out!

Waldarosa
05-11-2007, 12:37 PM
J
Argon is the shielding gas to use for mig Al. flow rate of 15-25 C.F.H.

JMcDonald
05-11-2007, 03:41 PM
Nevermind.