[TowerTalk] welding aluminum

[George Dubovsky]

Hi Bob,

Welding something like 6061-T6 will reduce the temper in the Heat Affected
Zone to T0 effectively. Over time - and I've never researched to find out
the time scales involved, but I think it's days to weeks - the HAZ is said
recover to about T4. If the parts are small, you might be able to re-heat
treat them, as the temps involved are much lower than that required for
steel.

You might also look at designing the joint with inserts or sleeving, so
that it can become a mechanical (bolted or clamped) joint.

Have fun!

73,

geo - n4ua

On Fri, Jan 30, 2015 at 12:02 PM, Bob Tabke <bob at onehorsecreek.com> wrote:

> I am building a 6m H-frame (33'x40') and need to connect two 4.5 inch
> pieces of T6 aluminum pipe as well as two sections of 3" al tube. I have an
> al welder. But I am wondering if anyone has experience with welding T6
> aluminum causing a loss in strength due to lessening the temper? The joints
> will have cradles on either side to reinforce the joint...
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bob, N7IP
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