Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
(OP)
Hi all, For TIG welding of aluminum i use AC and argon gas. I have learnt that oxide layer must be removed prior to welding and during welding. During welding, oxide layer is removed by sputtering phenomenon,which is that during the positive half cycle of electrode, heavy argon ions knock off the atoms from the work-piece surface.
My question is where these atoms go after being sputtered? Obviously, atoms will be oxygen and aluminum, does they go out into atmosphere? stay inside? in the weld metal? to the electrode?
Any response shall highly acknowledged.
My question is where these atoms go after being sputtered? Obviously, atoms will be oxygen and aluminum, does they go out into atmosphere? stay inside? in the weld metal? to the electrode?
Any response shall highly acknowledged.





RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
B.E.
You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
If they go to gas stream do they have potential to cause any defect/discontinuity or any related problem?
Thanx in advance
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
Not to the metal being welded.
Metal oxides and fumes are a well known industrial hazard, government regulations limiting the exposure to welders, and other people working in the area are well defined. Failure to adhere to the relevant guidelines and regulations can expose the employer and the welder to legal action, particularly if they expose other people to the welding fumes.
B.E.
You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
FWIW I did not see any references to MIG or TIG welding.
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
You are right, That did not have specific references to TIG. Here is a Safety Poster that does. see attachment.
B.E.
You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.
RE: Sputtering action in Tig welding of aluminium using AC and argon gas
The AWS Handbooks and the book Modern Welding Technology by H. Cary and S. Helzer can provide some additional insight on cathodic etching (cathodic cleaning).
Best regards - Al