Everlast welder ACDC 250

[jakesporting]

Hello all i was just wanting to know some basic settings for this machine for weldind aluminum .
I have 3/32 red thoriated tungston and straight argon for gas 3/32 er4043 filler rod .

I have been practicing on some scrap aluminum that is 3/16 thick and it looks ok but the beads sometimes look dull and not shiny any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks Jake

[lugweld]

Welcome to the forum. This is the place to get answers. They may be right or wrong answers, because everyone has an opinion but you'll get an answer. :laugh:
Generally,
There are a couple of things that can cause a dull bead on aluminum that are fairly common.

1) Inadequate flow rate of shielding gas. What do you have your regulator set on for flow? Trychanging it around..If you are in the open, try a little more than needed, to overcome any draft or breeze you may be dealing with. What size cup are you using? Try using a larger cup. Also check for leaks, internal and external of the shielding gas. Sometimes hot metal can burn through covers and create pin holes. Does your regulator register any flow while the unit is turned off? It could be a hole in the regulator line or in the unit.

2) Are you cleaning the Aluminum well with a clean Stainless Steel brush before you weld? A shiny appearance is necessary.Some aluminum stock has a factory finish that needs to be removed. Also, clean metal with a solvent such as acetone. Also is this anondized aluminum? It can cause some problems.

Just though of something else, if your machine has an AC balance control, then, adjust it so it cleans more while it is welding more. You will get a little less penetration, but less oxidation.
Another thought you are welding in AC, right? Sorry for the elementary questions, but sometimes, a new welder may not know these things.

Maybe some of the other guys might have an insight. Here's another thread with the same issue. http://weldingweb.com/showthread.php?t=10040&highlight=dull+aluminum+beads Post some pics. It might help others to tell you what is wrong.

[jakesporting]

Thanks for the reply most of my welds look like the ones in the post that you linked .

I guess just more practice is in order to try and see if i can figure it out. I'll see if i can get some pics for everyone to see or critique which ever they see fit for them. :rolleyes:

Thanks Jake

[jakesporting]

Due to the change of my title I will be posting in another section of the forum that cant be edited.

Thanks Jake