[Ultralow787]

Is it possible? I realize AC is preferred and recommended, but if AC is not available, can you use DCEN? If so, would you still want a balled tungsten?
Our Lincoln V350 Pro machines do not have AC capability, but I would like to practice on aluminum plates.

Thanks

[turbo388]

Try it and see what happens. LOL

It just melts a giant wad of aluminum, hidden underneath a big bubble of oxide and it's impossible to work with with the oxide present. That's what the AC is for, prevents the oxide from covering the puddle.

[jpence38]

You can tig weld aluminum on a dcen polarity, but you can only do it on very thick aluminum that has been cleaned very very, and I mean very good. Also, you will need to use an argon/helium mix shielding gas and a BIG tungsten for the high current. It may be good to just mess around with, but it is not recommended. Have fun

[Ultralow787]

Thanks guys! Not the answer I was hoping for......but I'm sure you are right. I guess using an old AC buzzbox won't work either? Assuming i could rig up the torch and gas supply for the argon?

[jpence38]

You would need some kind of high frequency arc starter/stabilizer with the AC.

[Ultralow787]

Thanks Jim,
I thought that was the case, but hoped for something different! LOL