aluminum welding bench

[df5152]

Is it worth while to make a bench from aluminum for aluminum welding or it doesnt really matter what about just topping my steel welding table with aluminum?

[aametalmaster]

If i had my choice i would just top it with 1/4" or thicker AL plate and bolt it down. The big problem will be gouges in the AL if you drag steel across it. Also if your part arcs it will leave a black spot on the AL. Most of my welding jigs are AL "skinned" to keep the splatter off. I just keep them hosed down with WD40...Bob

[ASKANDY]

The aluminum placed on a steel table will also tend to buckle when it gets hot so, you will need a few bolts or get a thicker piece of aluminum. I use a steel table that I brush and wipe off with cleaner before I do a bunch of aluminum.

A-

[dyn88]

you will also find that since aluminum is softer than most other alloys, when it gets warm, any projects you are working on will drag and become difficult to move. I would recomend that you stick with steel. steel will also cost less and last much longer.

[Paul Seaman]

Dyn88 where you been the last steel I got cost within a nickle a foot of Aluminum! Steel will last alot longer and is less likely to crack with heavy use.

[dyn88]

we pay around 80 cents more per pound or more for 6061t6 than 1018.

[df5152]

thanks for all the replys