Welding is a vital process used in many industrial and commercial enterprises. One of the most important aspects of welding is its ability to join two pieces of metal together.
Aluminum welding is a process used to join two pieces of aluminum together. But what is it called?In the United States, aluminum welding is most commonly called Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW).
According to the American Welding Society (AWS) standard, it is also especially known as TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding. The process usually utilizes a non-consumable tungsten electrode which produces a welding arc. Combined with inert shielding gas, GTAW can be used to create strong and reliable welds in aluminum materials.
In fact, aluminum welding is used to assemble 3 million tons of aluminum structures every year. This process is especially found in the automotive, aerospace, construction and HVAC industries.
GTAW is applicable for welding aluminum alloys and materials such as 5052, 6061, 6063, etc. By the end of this article, we’ll explain the basics of aluminum welding, a brief overview of its applications, as well as discuss its advantages and disadvantages.
You’ll learn why aluminum welding is an important process and what it is called. So, let’s get started!
What is Aluminum Welding Called?
Aluminum welding is a welding process that involves welding aluminum and other alloy materials. It is used in several applications, with the most common being aerospace and automotive engineering, as well as in general fabrication.The process of welding aluminum requires specialized equipment and techniques, and aluminum welding requires significant skill to ensure results that are safe and of highest quality.
Manual Metal Arc Welding Process
One of the most commonly used welding processes for aluminum welding is manual metal arc welding (MMAW), also known as “stick welding”.It uses an electric arc to melt and join metals, and it is a relatively economical way of welding aluminum. MMAW has been the preferred way of welding aluminum for many decades, but it is necessary to choose the right electrode for the job.
MIG Welding Process
MIG (metal inert gas) welding is another popular welding process for aluminum. This process uses a continuous feed of wire, which is melted and used to join pieces of aluminum together. MIG welding is faster and more precise than MMAW, making it the preferred choice for welding thicker sheets of aluminum.MIG welding also produces less spatter than MMAW and allows for welding in all positions, making it a versatile and cost-effective choice for many aluminum welding applications.
TIG Welding Process
TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create an arc.The arc is then used to heat and melt the aluminum, which is then joined by an argon-based filler metal. This process requires a high level of skill and precision, but it produces a high-quality, strong and durable weld. TIG welding is ideal for welding thinner aluminum sheets and for intricate aluminum welding projects.