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Welding aluminum piping intecooler pipe. What welder (Tig/Mig)?

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Old 09-20-2005, 05:18 PM
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Default Welding aluminum piping intecooler pipe. What welder (Tig/Mig)?

I am planning to weld some aluminum intercooler piping for my turbo setup. I was looking into renting a TIG welder for the job, but found out that you can also use a MIG. I'd prefer the TIG, but what would you experienced people recommend for welding aluminum intercooler piping?
Old 09-20-2005, 06:16 PM
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TIG all the way
Old 09-20-2005, 06:49 PM
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Tig is what is more common for Al.
Old 09-20-2005, 06:56 PM
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Has anyone been successful with MIG and aluminum?
Old 09-20-2005, 07:05 PM
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Tig... and if you have never welded Alum before It would be a really good idea to practice especially if your the one buying the piping... or take it somewhere... I can TIG pretty good but Alum needs a little work..
Old 09-20-2005, 08:13 PM
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I would say take it to a professinal, welding AL is a pain and it would look much better
Old 09-20-2005, 11:11 PM
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Not to mention the cost of the machine. Most TIG setups are north of 1400$.
Old 09-21-2005, 09:54 AM
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Tig would be give you the cleanest results.

You could use a spool gun from a mig w/straight argon. If your machine pushes aluminum though the liner, the only thing you'll be making is birdnests in your machine. Mig welding Al. is cost effecient. We use it all the time.

Both methods require technique and experience. If you're not familar with welding Al, due to the narrow melting point band, you can make puddles/holes out of your work very quickly.

Good luck,

Steve
Old 09-21-2005, 11:31 AM
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Thanks for the information guys.



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