What is the most commonly used welding technique for fusing aluminum?

The most commonly used welding technique for fusing aluminum is MIG welding. Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is particularly well-suited for aluminum because it allows for a high-speed welding process that is efficient for both thin and thick materials. MIG welding utilizes a continuous feed of a filler metal (the welding wire) and an inert gas, usually argon or a mixture of argon and helium, to shield the weld area from contamination.

MIG welding provides excellent control over the weld bead and penetration, making it ideal for aluminum, which can be more challenging to weld compared to other metals due to its conductivity and oxide layer. The ability to weld at higher speeds while producing quality welds makes MIG welding a preferred choice in industries that work with aluminum, such as automotive and aerospace.

In contrast, other techniques like TIG welding, while also effective for aluminum, are typically slower and require more skill to achieve high-quality results, making them less commonly used in high-production environments. Stick welding is generally better suited for ferrous metals and is not as effective on aluminum due to its difficulty in maintaining a stable arc. Arc welding encompasses a wide range of processes and is not specifically tailored to aluminum, which is why MIG welding stands out in this context.