Can I Use an Argon Mix to MIG Weld Aluminum?
Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is an arc welding process that utilizes a constant voltage, direct current power source to feed a continuous, consumable wire electrode and an inert shielding gas through the welding gun. This process was developed for welding aluminum and other non-ferrous materials and is one of the easiest, quickest and most versatile industrial welding processes. Argon and helium are the inert shielding gases used in MIG welding aluminum. Using Argon or an Argon Mix Use either argon or a mix of 40% argon and 60% helium as the inert shielding gases, when MIG welding only aluminum, since MIG welding other thin metals using only argon as the inert shielding gas can ruin the weld and damage the metal. Use a flow rate between 40 and 60 cubic feet per hour on an argon flow meter when MIG welding with only argon. Use a flow rate between 50 and 100 cubic feet per hour on a helium flow meter for an inert shielding gas mix of argon and helium. Use only a “push technique” when MI
