Is aluminum weld crack-sensitive? What are important considerations in aluminum alloy welding?
A. In aluminum weld, the alloy selection, choice of filler metal and the choice of welding process depend upon the composition of base metal. Welding aluminum structures are not more difficult than steel structures; it should be approached differently than steel welding. Most aluminum alloys are weldable, but some of the strongest aluminum alloys are difficult to weld, (welds show hot cracking) using conventional techniques. Alloys prone to hot cracking are not proper choice for structural applications. Crack-sensitivity of welds depends on the alloy composition and choice of filler metal. Weldable alloys have a composition that falls either above or below the crack-sensitive zone. For example, alloy 6061 welds are crack-sensitive; the crack-sensitivity can be reduced to acceptable levels by using high silicon or high magnesium filler metal as it reduces cracking sensitivity. In alloy 7075, it is difficult to choose crack-resistant weld filler metal. Aluminum has high thermal conductiv
Related Questions
- Does the software provide any suggested weld data, for welding steels, stainless steels and aluminum, for several welding processes [SMAW (Stick), FCAW, GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), SAW]?
- Is aluminum weld crack-sensitive? What are important considerations in aluminum alloy welding?
- Are weld insert rings or special welding wire required to join C22 alloy?
