How do YOU Clean Aluminum for TIG Welding?

Aluminum needs to be clean enough for TIG welding.
But what is clean enough?
Brand new aluminum sheet might not need any cleaning at all.
A welding test that will be x ray tested needs different cleaning methods than a dog feeder.
Cast aluminum needs different cleaning methods and welding methods than sheet or structural shapes.

[hoodznchromez]

Hey Jody, long time viewer here. Went and got my d17.1 for alum 4130 ss and nickle alloys because of you! How about a little shop tour for us?

[paulkurilecz]

The way I like to clean aluminum depends on where the weld will be. The surfaces I use a cordless right angle drive drill. I use some 3" diameter quick change pads with a scotchbrite like material in coarse, medium and fine. Which one that I use depends on how dirty or corroded the aluminum is. For the edges, if it is thin material (<0.063"), I will rub the edge surface back and forth on either 120 or 220/240 grit sandpaper. The piece of sand paper is on a flat surface, usually my copper chill block. For thicker pieces (= or > 1/8"), I will use a 3" 120 grit flap disc. I have also used my belt sander with either a 120 grit or 240 grit belt to clean the edge surfaces.

And then, of course, wipe down with acetone.

I use a similar process for carbon steel, stainless steel, copper and magnesium. The range of thicknesses for me is from 0.025" to 0.250"

[prebaned]

I been using a dedicated SS wire brush by hand and isopropyl alcohol. Seems to work for me. Acetone is probably better, but in my case I rather not have rags soaked in Acetone and Isopropyl alcohol is cheaper for me.

[Steve-fwvd]

How do you clean anodized aluminum to weld it?

[kevin-ulfn]

will glass blasting the aluminum hurt welding it?

[НиколаАј]

Hey jodie u tought me welding aluminum and to tell the truth I have discovered thaj the Best way to clean aluminum Is brush for grinder on slow rpm Never mind wheather Is brass or steel and I have been welding dump trucks and tanks with that prep