What happens if you stick weld aluminum with AC?

[Skippii]

Since all the rods are labled for DC, I'm guessing it won't turn out great.

What happens?
1. You can never start an arc
2. The rod burns straight through the alu.
3. The weld never penetrates
4. The weld looks fine, but will break as soon as a feather falls on it.
5. The weld works just fine on AC, it's just a bit more difficult.

[Fat Bastard]

I use GTAW

[jdustu]

I screwed around with some stick aluminum welding last year. The rods were old, but I dried them out a bit and gave it a go. I honestly can't remember what my setting were....I know I tried them all

I just messed around with it for a hot second, I'd be interested in seeing some pics from guys with experiece in sticking aluminum! I've looked for pics before and haven't found any.

Here's my crap, I did a few t-fillets:

[Dr Crane]

Tried it, didn't like it. Much better results with DCEP and a lot more amperage than with steel of the same thickness. Be prepared for 1/8 rod to go away in less than 10 seconds.