Welding Aluminum

[tommyd]

I noticed when welding AL. when you stop sometimes you see a wavy sparkling in the metal. Can anyboby tell me what it is?

[Terence638]

Im not sure but that may have some thing to do with contamination in the weld bool that boils out as it cools.
Terence

[Paul Seaman]

You got me thinking and the best answer I have is silica that is precipitating out during the weld. This is a best guess, post a picture if you can, that may tell something different. I have read through my books and nothing else seems likely. If it's silica then no problem.

Peace,

[tommyd]

well has anyone seen this? I want to make sure I'm not crazy!

[tommyd]

Im not sure but that may have some thing to do with contamination in the weld bool that boils out as it cools.
Terence

This is not in the weld pool it go all over the metal after you stop welding

[SoCalTA]

tommyd,

I have seen it as it happens to me as well. Not sure what causes it.