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Hi Bryan, Tig is very nice as it has a very controled arc thus would have a slightly tighter heat zone area. If you weld more than 1/8" then you will need a wet Tig torch and need a 250amp AC HF( high frequency) machine in any AL welding. A T-17 dry torch will handle slightly less than 150amps but it gets awful warm. Is Tig cost effective for home use? Not for me! You can Oxy/Acet weld AL without any problems. Most
AL doesn't require a flux if your torch is adjust correct, neutral flame and the base metal is kept clean. The key to welding AL is keeping it clean. As you weld AL, your weld puddle will become contamiated with black oxides, don't matter which process you choose. Stop and clean with a new SS wire brush, one that has not been used on any other metal and on a drill motor works best. Clean until you hit white metal. If you don't pull the filler rod out of the gas zone then you will keep contamination to a minmium, on all processes. When asking welding questions always include the material thickness as this helps to give advice on your projects. T_Bone
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