Some notes when performing aluminum welding by rod welding machine

Welding aluminum with a rod welding machine is considered one of the difficult welding techniques due to the special characteristics of aluminum, along with the strict requirements for welding machines and welding rods. The implementation of aluminum welding requires welders to master the techniques and have thorough preparation. To help you perform the welding process more efficiently, in this article, RX Tradex will provide essential notes when performing aluminum welding by rod welding machine. 

1. Some things to know before welding aluminum

Aluminum is a material with high thermal conductivity and fast melting. Before welding aluminum, it is necessary to understand the following factors:

• Melting Point: Aluminum melts at around 660°C, but the aluminum oxide layer has a melting point of up to 2050°C. This requires the oxide layer to be removed before welding to ensure a quality weld.
• Thermal conductivity: Aluminum has 5 times higher thermal conductivity than steel, so controlling the temperature when welding becomes more important.
• Cracking and deformation: Aluminum is prone to cracking and deformation due to heat shrinkage when welding, and attention should be paid to the welding process and technique to avoid this phenomenon.

2. Why is it difficult to weld aluminum with a rod welding machine?

As mentioned above, aluminum welding is considered a complex process due to many factors, typically the special physical properties of aluminum. Aluminum and its alloys are prone to cracking when welded if filler metal materials are not used. Compared to steel, aluminum is less durable and tends to warp if not handled properly, for example using a push gun.

Plus, aluminum has a much higher thermal conductivity than steel, making heat transferred faster during the welding process. This requires adjusting the welding flow correctly to avoid melting the aluminum.

One of the reasons why welding aluminum with a rod welding machine is difficult is that aluminum produces an oxide layer that has a higher melting point than pure aluminum. To prevent unmelted aluminum oxide particles from welding, it is necessary to adopt methods of removing aluminum oxide, such as using a melting table or cleaning the surface with chemicals before welding.

3. Requirements when welding aluminum with rod welding machine

In order to perform aluminum welding effectively, the following factors should be paid attention to:

• Welding Power Supply: Use DC+ power.
• Welding Line: Adjustable according to welding rod diameter:

• 50 – 80A cho than 2.4mm
• 80 – 130A cho than 3.2mm
• 100 – 180A cho than 4mm

Before welding, it is necessary to heat the aluminum surface.

• Arc welding rod: Choose a welding rod with aluminum alloy coating to ensure the melting process blends, avoiding fire and explosion.
• Welding Technique: Requires high experience and skill, needs to test multiple lines, welding methods, and rod placements.
• Rod welding machine: Choose a quality welding machine. Welders need to be proficient in using and mastering the rules, as well as quickly handle problems that arise during the welding process.

4. Aluminum welding by stone wind welding method

The stone wind welding method, also known as oxy-acetylene welding, is one of the traditional methods for welding aluminum. In order to achieve strong welds when using the rock wind welding method for aluminum materials, the following should be noted:

• If the weld is thick, heat it more thoroughly to make sure it melts evenly. The heating time needs to be longer than rod welding.
• The heating site will have a white bubbly, which is a sign of preparation for welding.
• When welding, make sure that the aluminum melts into the location to be welded and drag it in correctly.
• For weld fillers, in addition to aluminum welding rods, it is necessary to use aluminum rods to heat and apply, ensuring durability.
• With thick welds, after completion, it can be sharpened to bring aesthetics. Care should be taken not to lose the bonding of the weld.

5. Conclusion

The above are important notes when performing aluminum welding by rod welding machine. Welding aluminum requires not only the skill of using welding machines and welding rods, but also an extensive understanding of material properties and welding techniques. By properly applying welding principles and processes, we can ensure the quality and durability of aluminum welding products, thereby improving the competitiveness of businesses in the manufacturing industry.

In addition, in order to access advanced technologies and promote the development of businesses, this year, RX Tradex Vietnam has organized a series of international exhibition events such as: NEPCON Vietnam, METALEX Vietnam, Vietnam Manufacturing Expo and Waste and Recycling Vietnam. This will be an ideal place for businesses to share experiences, meet leading experts and learn about the latest technology solutions in the manufacturing industry.