Challenges in Thermal Welding of Aluminium Alloys

Modern transport systems have the challenge to integrate more and more functions. This increases the weight of the structures. On the other hand demands and the legal regulations for emissions can only be fulfilled if the weight is reduced. This results in an ongoing increase of the usage of lightweight materials. Due to its low density and high strength Aluminium Alloys are the most used lightweight metals. However, some other physical properties hamper the processing of these alloys. The publication shows ways to overcome these challenges applying appropriate material preparation and handling in combination with specialized welding equipment for Aluminium welding. Application examples demonstrate the state of the art in Aluminium welding.