Stick welding aluminum

Anybody tried the aluminum 4043 welding rods in a DC stick machine?

 

No.
I was watching a video on you tube. Looks like quite a challenge to get the arc started with the heavy coating of arc shield material/flux on the rod. Interesting comments too. It also looks like preheating the aluminum is helpful.

First timer with aluminum rods

 

I've heard and read about aluminum stick welding but never tried it, myself. The advice i've heard is practice on a test joint first because the electrode consumes quickly, and that takes some getting used to. I've heard it's hard to keep track of the weld puddle because of the smoke and slag getting everywhere.

It may be tough on thinner metal. What's your application? Let us know how it goes!
​​

 

Almost forgot: the electrode is dc-ep, so mind your polarity!

 

I don't really have an application right now but I live on the coast where there is a lot of aluminum used on boats, boat lifts and other marine applications. I watched a video and it looks pretty tricky so I may not even try it.

 

I would not even bother trying. Welding aluminum is something where you really want the right tools and skill. If you have a project requiring welding aluminum it's a good time to spend a little and have someone experienced do it unless you want to buy the equipment and learn as a hobby.

I almost always go for stainless at the coast. The material is more expensive and heavier but it is much easier to weld and stainless withstands the salt even better than aluminum. If I do do something with aluminum I usually bolt or rivet or suck it up and take it to someone more experienced than me for welding since my aluminum welds are just plain ugly.