How do you know if you are using the right amount of Argon with your aluminum welding?

Question

I understand that if I use too little argon the weld comes out dirty or pitted, what do I need to look for with too much argon? Also, is my employer solely responsible for knowingly having an uncertified welder doing the supposedly certified work?

Answer 1

Too much flow, or rather too high a flow rate, can cause turbulance which can spoil the weld.

I wouldn't count on you being totally non-culpable if there is an investigation later. If you know that you are doing non-certified work where certification is specified, you probably have some liability. I've tested welds where people have died from faulty construction. Lawyers throw a big net at such times. Check with a lawyer in your state.

Answer 2

The point of using argon is to flush out oxygen from the area of welding, so that nothing will oxidize, and that is the importance of using "enough" argon. However, since argon is an inert gas, there's no such thing as "too much argon", except simply waste.

If you are an uncertified welder, and you get caught doing certified work, you won't be deported unless you're an illegal alien. But it's your employer that's legally reponsible and liable for using uncertified welders for certified work. Nonetheless, you shouldn't be doing certified work if you're not certified, that goes without saying.

Answer 3

Hi. Your first answer is correct. Are you using a rounded electrode point? The argon gas needs to flow all over the molten surface until it solidifies.