Tungsten for aluminum

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When TIG welding aluminum, the best tungsten options are:

1. 2% Lanthanated Tungsten (Blue, WL20)
Advantages:
- Excellent Arc Stability: Provides a stable and consistent arc, which is key for tig welding aluminum.
- Low as well as high Current Performance: Performs well at the both low and high amperage settings
- Versatility: Suitable for both AC and DC welding,
- Non-Radioactive: Safe to handle and environmentally friendly.

can be used with a tapered tip and holds up well at low amperage as well as higher amps.

3. Rare Earth Tungsten (Purple, E3)
Advantages:
- Arc Stability: Offers excellent arc stability and control, important for thin aluminum welding. Does not handle high amperage as well as 2% lanthanated but maintains a tip well provided amperage range is not exceeded for a given diameter electrode.
- Low Burn-Off Rate: Durable and maintains its shape longer, reducing the frequency of sharpening.
- Versatility: Suitable for both AC and DC welding, and effective at low amperages.
- Non-Radioactive: Safe and environmentally friendly.

4. LaYZr from CK (Chartreuse)
Advantages:
- Arc Stability: Offers same excellent arc stability and control as E3 at low to mid range amperage, important for thin aluminum welding.
- Low Burn-Off Rate: Durable and maintains its shape longer, reducing the frequency of sharpening.
- Versatility: Suitable for both AC and DC welding, and very effective at low amperages.
- Non-Radioactive: Safe and environmentally friendly.

For welding aluminum over .125" thick, 2% Lanthanated (Blue tungsten, WL20) is generally the best choice due to its excellent performance at high amperages.

Of course there are subtle differences in each type electrode listed here.

It boils down to the specific application and only experience will show you the absolute best tungsten for aluminum for you.

The type of welding machine you use, welder settings like AC balance, AC frequency, etc. all come into play in determining the best tungsten for aluminum.