A MIG175 welding machine with a brown casing and attached spool gun resting on a metal workbench in a dimly lit workshop.

Lotos MIG 175 Welder Review: Weld Steel and Aluminum Without Breaking the Bank

A dependable MIG welder that handles both steel and aluminum isn’t easy to find—especially if you’re working on a tight budget. That’s why the Lotos MIG175 has built a reputation among DIYers, home garage welders, and small shop owners. It brings solid performance, comes with a spool gun, and runs on 240V power, making it…

A Miller TIG welder positioned in a bright, professional welding workshop.
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Best Miller TIG Welder for Aluminum: Top Choices for Precision Welding

Aluminum welding demands precision, control, and a machine that can deliver consistent high-quality results. Miller Electric stands out in the welding industry for its reliable and performance-driven TIG welders, especially for aluminum projects. Whether you’re a professional fabricator or an enthusiast taking on intricate projects, choosing the best Miller TIG welder for aluminum can significantly…

Best TIG Welder on the Market: Our Top Picks for Precision and Power

Best TIG Welder on the Market: Our Top Picks for Precision and Power

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is renowned for its precision, clean welds, and versatility across various metals, including aluminum and stainless steel. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, investing in the best TIG welder on the market can significantly elevate your craftsmanship. In this guide, we explore the top TIG welding machines…

Is MIG or TIG Better for Welding Aluminum?

Is MIG or TIG Better for Welding Aluminum?

Aluminum welding requires skill and precision due to the metal’s high thermal conductivity and oxidation properties. Whether you choose MIG (Metal Inert Gas) or TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding depends on the thickness of the material, the desired finish, and the level of control needed. Both processes have their advantages and drawbacks, making it essential…

A welder in a dim workshop welding an aluminum bar with a stick welder, sparks flying as the arc glows intensely, with a MIG machine in the background.

Welding Aluminum with a Stick Welder: A Tough but Useful Skill

Stick welding isn’t the top choice for aluminum—but sometimes, it’s all you’ve got. Whether you’re fixing a cracked trailer, repairing a part on the go, or just experimenting in your garage, you can weld aluminum with a stick welder. It’s not the cleanest method, and there’s a learning curve, but for quick jobs or outdoor…

A close-up of an aluminum MIG welding process, showing a gloved hand guiding a torch over a metal plate with stacked filler rods nearby.

What Filler Rod for Aluminum: Choose the Right Rod for Strong, Clean Welds

Welding aluminum isn’t quite the same as working with steel. It’s more sensitive to contamination, more prone to warping, and it demands the right filler rod to get solid, long-lasting results. If you’re using the wrong rod—even with a flawless technique—you could end up with weak joints or cracks down the line. Let’s break down…

Learn about the most common aluminum filler rod and how to choose the right one for your welding projects with confidence and clarity.

Most Common Aluminum Filler Rods Explained for Everyday Welders

Aluminum welding is its own beast—but knowing the right filler rod can save you a ton of time and headaches. Whether you’re working on 6061 tubing, boat repairs, or general fabrication, the rod you choose makes a big difference in strength, flow, and finish. The two rods that come up again and again in welding…

A welder performing TIG welding on a polished aluminum sheet, with visible arc light and filler rod in motion.

Best Welding Technique for Aluminum and How to Get It Right

Aluminum welding isn’t the same as welding mild steel. It heats up fast, cools quickly, and doesn’t always give you time to react. But if you’re using the right technique—and you’ve got your machine set up properly—you can absolutely get strong, clean welds that hold up and look good too. Here’s a breakdown of the…

A photograph displays four metal workpieces laid out on a dark workshop table, each showing a different welded seam—from smooth stainless steel to rough, rusted cast iron.

Can All Metals Be Welded Together? Challenges and Solutions

Welding is a powerful skill, but not every metal responds well to heat and filler. Some weld up clean and smooth, while others crack, warp, or just won’t bond without specialized gear. Whether you’re building a firepit in your backyard or repairing a trailer in your garage, knowing what metals can be welded—and how—is key…

A high-resolution digital photograph captures Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding in action, with a bright arc forming between the torch and two clean metal plates.

What Is TIG Welding? Mastering the Cleanest Welding Method

TIG welding—also known as Tungsten Inert Gas welding—is widely recognized for its precision and clean results. It’s a top choice when your project demands an attractive finish or involves tricky materials like aluminum or stainless steel. From bike frames to custom kitchen fixtures, TIG is the method many pros turn to when they need the…