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Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Tue Jul 14, 2026 2:16 pm
by pavetim
Very first shot at Aluminum tig. I am guessing go down a little on the AC balance what's your thoughts guy and gals? Had it on 120V so couldn't go up anymore in amps 120A, 120Hz, and I think 40 on the AC balance
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Tue Jul 14, 2026 8:57 pm
by tweake
why is it yellow?
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Tue Jul 14, 2026 9:52 pm
by pavetim
Cause my camera sucks and the garage light is yellowish this one is a little better
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Wed Jul 15, 2026 12:28 am
by tweake
with such low amps i would try some aluminium sheet eg 1/16". the most common beginner mistake is not enough amps for the thickness. aluminium needs truckloads.
also use a small cup, say a 4 or 5. balance start with 30.
try not putting so much filler in as it cools the puddle.
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Wed Jul 15, 2026 1:22 pm
by pavetim
Been watching videos and for that plate I probably need 200A so that's prob my issue. I had 120jz, 40% ac positive but 125A max. I'll get some thinner stuff and practice on mild steel. I know Al is trickier but figure easier to practice cause it's more forgiving with heat but I'll practice in both and get some thinner filler too
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Wed Jul 15, 2026 5:57 pm
by Superiorwelding
Looks like you have too much EP from the etching profile. Maybe adjust that. Also, what gas flow and cup are you running? That can have an effect on the etch profile. Otherwise, looking good. You can obviously see where your filler hit your tungsten but that will get better with practice. Keep it up.
-Jonathan
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2026 12:07 am
by pavetim
Had 40 EP machine only goes down to 20 I think it might help if I had more amps but don't have 220V had hard time getting filler to melts that's why I hit tungsten and took forever to create puddle. It was thicker aluminum was just practicing but think I need some thinner stuff since I can't get landlord to put in a 220V outlet
Re: Critique my weld and recommend changes
Posted: Thu Jul 16, 2026 12:17 am
by tweake
pavetim wrote: ↑Thu Jul 16, 2026 12:07 am
Had 40 EP machine only goes down to 20 I think it might help if I had more amps but don't have 220V had hard time getting filler to melts that's why I hit tungsten and took forever to create puddle. It was thicker aluminum was just practicing but think I need some thinner stuff since I can't get landlord to put in a 220V outlet
going to 30ep will help with adding more heat. likewise with a small cup.