Aluminium Welding: What to Take to the Workshop Before Asking for a Price

A broken part and a new assembly may both require aluminium welding, but the conversation in the workshop will be different. In repairs, it's necessary to understand what happened and the state of the material. In new fabrication, the starting point is the design and function of the assembly.

There is information that helps right from the first contact. Instead of sending just a close-up photo of the area to be welded, show the entire piece. The dimensions, the position of the joint, and access to the work area can alter how the service is performed.

Do you know what aluminium alloy it is?

If you have a technical data sheet, a drawing, or the material identification, send this information. The word aluminium encompasses several alloys, with different behaviors in welding. It's not possible to confirm everything by colour or surface shine.

The TWI explains that aluminium welding depends, among other factors, on the alloy and the chosen process. When identification is not available, the workshop must be aware of this in order to decide what checks are necessary.

Explain what the part does

State where it is used, what it supports, and whether it is subject to movement, vibration, water, or external exposure. A small part can have an important function within an assembly. This context should not be implied.

If there are design, inspection, or documentation requirements, share this information immediately. In safety, vehicle, or equipment components subject to specific requirements, the feasibility of repair must be confirmed by the person with technical responsibility for the application.

In a repair, explain how the problem arose

A crack after an impact should not be treated as wear without a known cause. Indicate if the part has already been repaired, if the defect has reappeared, and if there have been recent changes to the equipment. Photographs from different angles help to understand the visible extent of the problem.

Avoid preparing the area on your own initiative with products or materials not recommended by the workshop. The necessary preparation should be defined after assessing the surface condition and the work to be performed.

In a new fabrication, show the assembled unit in the drawing.

In addition to the individual parts, send a view of the final assembly. Indicate which faces are visible, where other components are inserted, and what measurements need to be respected. A joint accessible before assembly may be difficult to execute when the assembly is closed.

If you need multiple units, state the initial quantity and the possibility of repetition. It may make sense to validate the first piece before continuing. This decision should be agreed upon with the budget and acceptance criteria.

Finishing and delivery are also part of the order.

Clarify whether you only want the joining or also preparation and finishing operations. Indicate the desired deadline and how the part will arrive at the workshop. The final price depends on the complete job, not just the apparent length of the weld.

Lumiinox works Welded aluminium and custom-made metal parts. Send the photographs or drawing and explain the intended use. With this information, we can analyse the request more rigorously.