As you’ve chosen to read this article, it’s safe to assume that you’re well aware of the uses of tungsten for aluminum and how critical it’s to choose the best one. There’re a lot of varieties available, but you’d want the purest tungsten for welding. A lot of variables are to be considered while buying the product.
How many electrodes it comes with, includes a grinder, whether it comes in different sizes and be worked in different angles, etc. It’s a hassle looking for the perfect piece. You also have to consider weight, cost, and availability.
This comparative review will help you choose the best tungsten for aluminum. Scouring the market and the internet, we present you the top ones with detailed features based on the expert’s opinion and consumer’s reviews.
Comparison Table of Top Tungsten for Aluminum
| Product Name | Material | Quantity | Size |
| 3 mirrors ALUMINUM Tungsten Electrode | Aluminum Alloy | 4 | 1/16 inch & 3/32 inch |
| TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes | Lanthaneted | 10 | 3/32 inch |
| KINGQ TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes 2% Lanthanated | Lanthanated | 10 | 1/8 inch |
| 2% Lanthanated TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes | Lanthanated | 10 | 3/32 x 7 inch |
| 3mirrors ALUMINUM Tungsten Electrode Sharpener Grinder | Aluminum Alloy | 1 | 0/40 inch, 1/16 inch, 1/18 inch, and 3/32 inch |
| WeldingCity 10-pK Premium TIG Welding Tungsten Electrode Rod Pure | Pure Tungsten (Green) | 10 | 0.040 inch, 1/16 inch, 3/32 inch, 1/8 inch, 5/32 inch, and 7 inch |
| Midwest TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes Pure Tungsten | Pure Tungsten (Blue) | 10 | 3/32 inch |
| Patriot 2% Thoriated TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes | Thoriate | 10 | 1/8 x 7 inch |
| 3mirrors Aluminum Tungsten Electrode Sharpener Grinder TIG Welding | Aluminum Alloy | 1 | 0/40 inch, 1/8 inch, 1/16 inch, 3/32 inch, 5/32 inch, and 5/64 inch |
| 3mirrors Aluminum Tungsten Electrode Sharpener Grinder Head TIG Welding Tool | Aluminum Alloy | 4 | 1/16 inch & 3/32 inch |
Best Tungsten for Aluminum
We’ve selected products based on cutter numbers, capabilities, welding capacity, durability, etc. Go through them carefully to find one that suits your needs.
Key Features:
- Number of hole cutters: 3
- Weight: 5 ounces
- Material: Aluminum T6061
- Wheels: 5X 25mm Double Diamond
- Size: small
This 3mirrors ALUMINUM Tungsten is especially for those people who work professionally. It’s another premium product by the popular 3mirrors brand. The product is super durable because of the upgraded aluminum alloy material.
There are three holes for better functionality, making full use of each ring on the grinding wheel. Holes for the diamond wheel are also the same in height. So you don’t need to change them repeatedly. 4 different offset angles each are different.
Unfortunately, no rotary tools are coming with the main product. The main exquisite accessories are a CNC machine, 120-140 Grit which has good hardness, wear resistance, and impact resistance.
Here, you can fit those rotary tools with 3/4-12 thread. Generally, the kit comes with 5 diamond wheels, each 25mm size, and 4 copper screws to cut off multi-angle shapes. The installation process is way easier because there are only three steps to go.
Pros
- Made with super-durable aluminum materials.
- It’s a cordless grinder; thus, it can be used anywhere.
- Comes with a tungsten cut-off port that offers easy cuts
Cons
- No rotary tools are coming with the main product
Key Features:
- Quantity: 10 piece tungsten electrode
- Weight: 5.9 ounces
- Lanthanated: 2%
- Size: 3/32”
TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes 2% Lanthanated manufactured by Midwest Tungsten Service is providing an awesome quality electrode at a reasonable price. You can use this tungsten for the aluminum inverter as well as transformer TIG. But mostly, people use this tungsten for aluminum inverters.
The functionality is not very high, but this tool is capable of holding a high load amp. You can cut all sorts of thin gauge aluminum which is under 0.060 inches.
In AC & DC application, this 2% Lanthanated Blue electrode’s performance is really impressive. Apart from that, this tungsten is suitable for welding aluminum alloys, nickel alloy, copper alloy, low alloyed steel, and every sort of stainless steel.
Pros
- You’ll will get both the AC and DC supplies
- Provides superior quality at a low price
- Offering high load and amp capability
Cons
- Mostly suitable for thin-gauge aluminum
Key Features:
- Material: 2% Lanthanum tungsten
- Weight: 9.6 ounces
- Size: 1/8”
- Quantity:10 pack
- Recommended Usage: Aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys, etc
The brand Golden Globe officially produced KINGQ TIG Welding Tungsten. They offer a total of 10 tungsten electrodes for TIG welding.
Frankly, the electrodes are great in terms of durability because 2% lanthanum tungsten has been used here, which is way more cost-effective than other major brands.
This 10 pack tungsten electrode can be the best fit for your job since it has 2% thoriated. While adhering to ANSI and AWS standards, these electrodes hold the best quality of arc. Because of reliable arc striking and limited rate of burn.
In DC welding application, these electrodes are extremely long-lasting and way more durable than other electrodes.
Other than that, these electrodes are incredibly suitable for non-corrosive steel, low alloyed steel, titanium alloy, and copper alloy.
Unfortunately, it comes with a low work function. But the users are able to work on a high load amp. It perfectly works in both AC/DC supplies.
Pros
- Highest quality of arc are great for ANSI and AWS standard
- Extremely long-lasting from DC welding application
- Highly durable because of lanthanum materials.
Cons
- Might not go for a long run due to the lack of durability
Key Features:
- Quantity: 10 piece tungsten electrode
- Weight: 6.2 ounces
- Material: Lanthanated 2%
- Size: 3/32”
- Finish: Ground Finish
2% Lanthanated TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes are produced by the brand called patriot tungsten. It comes in a 3/32” x 7” size, and the total quality is 10 pieces.
Plus, the 2% Lanthanide material is extremely durable so it will last for years. It’s super cost-efficient.
Apart from that, this 2% Lanthanide is very popular because of its non-radiative properties. It also provides thermal shock resistance and is ready to provide superb ignition.
In both AC & DC applications, you will get the highest performance. In addition, it also works as an alternative to radioactive Thoriated Tungsten.
It can easily hold the highest amp while working, but the functionality is a little less than other similar tungsten. These 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes are primarily used for cutting thin-gauge aluminum.
Apart from that, the brand ensures 100% traceability of the product while shipping, so there’s no more tension after ordering them.
Pros
- Highly durable because off EWLa-2 Material
- Perfectly work for both the AC and DC application
- Conforms to ANSI/AWS A5.12
Cons
- Low functionality
Key Features:
- Weight: 1.74 pounds
- Size: Small
- Material: Aluminum
- Dust Holder: Yes
- Style 4 Holes w/ Screws
3mirrors ALUMINUM Tungsten Electrode Sharpener has an open design style, which helps to make the installation process easier. Moreover, the electrode is made of aluminum. So you can expect the highest quality and best durability.
The tungsten originally has four angled holes, and all these holes use the same height of diamond wheels. However, it becomes easier to work with it since you don’t have to frequently fix the height.
It has both sharpening tools and tungsten cutting port processing. Besides, To grind flat tips vertically, the manufacturer has also designed a flat grinding block for that.
Besides, with the grinder kit, an additional small storage bag will come. The bag conveniently stores all the tools together safely.
Pros
- Carrying is super easy.
- It provides precise control and grinds the perfect tungsten grind angle.
- Total five-speed control available
Cons
- No rotary tools will be available
Key Features:
- Length: 7 inches
- Weight: 6.4 ounces
- Material: Tungsten
- Diameter: 3/32″
- Recommended Usage: Aluminium (for non-inverter transformer style)
The TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes Rod Pure from WeldingCity is popular for non-critical welds. The packaging includes 10 electrodes of 7” that’ll last for a long time.
These electrodes are made of 99.5% tungsten, making it sturdy enough to weld strong aluminum. You can hold better stability While working with these tungsten electrodes with alternating current.
The manufacturer of WeldingCity designed these tungsten electrodes without needing any battery, which makes them more efficient to work with.
On the other hand, its sturdy feature offers long-term and durable service with reliable welding work performance. You can find these silver rod electrodes at an affordable price, and you won’t regret purchasing these for your non-inverter transform welding style projects.
Pros
- Built with 99.5% tungsten, making it sturdy.
- Offer better stability when used in alternating current.
- Provide better working performance.
Cons
- Only suitable for non-critical welds.
Key Features:
- Length: 7 inches.
- Weight: 6.4 ounces
- Material: Pure Tungsten
- Diameter: 3/32″
- Recommended Usage: Magnesium Alloys and Aluminum Alloys
The Midwest TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes are made from pure tungsten material. This welding stick is well-known for its high-end performance in a compelling arc, precise amp, and low burning rate.
The package comes with ten green electrodes that conduct with AC supply only. You can easily weld magnesium and aluminum alloy with these extraordinary green electrodes.
Besides, these electrodes are made of 99.95% of pure tungsten. The excessive presence of pure tungsten persuades the electrodes to perform better than other compatible electrodes. This is why the manufacturer proudly calls their products the most reviewed electrodes on Amazon.
If you want welding electrodes that will last for a long time and provide consistent performance, you can undoubtedly rely on these tungsten electrodes for aluminum.
These green electrodes have the ability to upbeat the most complex welding job yet provide the same consistent and excellent performance for the future job. It’s pretty surprising to get this much durability of welding electrodes within $19.
Pros
- It’s built with 99.95% pure tungsten.
- Suitable for Magnesium and Aluminum Alloys.
- Last longer since they burn slowly.
Cons
- Non-suitable for DC welding.
Key Features:
- Weight: 10.5 ounces
- Material: Thoriated Tungsten
- Size: 1/18″ x 7″
- Finish: Ground Finish
- Electrode Shape: Cone
- Cutting Dial: 0.13 inches
The 2% Thoriated Tungsten TIG Welding Electrodes from Patriot offers superior quality electrodes and excellent working performance at a low cost. If you’re looking for welding electrodes made of tungsten for thin aluminum, you can trust these electrodes.
It has a low work function and comes with the capability of holding a high load and amp. These 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes are primarily used for cutting thin-gauge aluminum and materials under 0.060 inches.
The AC and DC welding electrodes use negative polarity on stainless steel, nickel alloy, carbon steel, and titanium, which means faster melting of the electrodes and a faster deposition rate.
If we talk about the value, then it offers a significant performance according to its price. This Patriot 2% Thoriated is a quality welding tungsten electrode that comes within $25.
Pros
- Comes with both AC DC supplies.
- Offers superior quality at a low price.
- Provides high load and amp capability.
Cons
- Mostly suitable for thin-gauge aluminum.
Key Features:
- Weight: 1.83 pounds
- Size: Small
- Material: Aluminium
- Dust Holder: Yes
- Tungsten Available Needle Size: 6 (1mm, 1.6mm, 2mm, 2.4mm, 3.2mm, 4mm)
It not only has a sharpening tool but also includes tungsten cutting port processing. Besides, the manufacturer has also designed a flat grinding block that can be used to grind flat tips vertically.
Also, it’s easy to install the grinding wheels quickly due to its open settings. Besides, this grinder kit comes with a small storage bag that conveniently stores all the tools together safely.
It comes with 4 angled holes, and all these holes use the same height of diamond wheels. Thus it becomes easier to work with it since you don’t have to fix the height frequently.
On top of that, this tungsten welding grinder is made of aluminum. Though aluminum isn’t as durable as steel, but aluminum will keep you worry-free about corrosion.
However, wearing safety gear is recommended when working with the 3mirror Aluminum Tungsten Electrode Sharpener Grinder.
Pros
- Easy to use and move around.
- Offers precise control and grind perfect tungsten grind angle.
- Features a dust housing to offer healthy work.
- Comes with five-speed control.
Cons
- Made of light material like aluminum.
Key Features:
- Weight: 5 ounces
- Material: Aluminium T6061
- Number of hole cutters: 3
- Wires: Cordless
- Compatibility: Rotary tools
Here comes our final welding product of the best tungsten for aluminum list. The 3mirrors Aluminum Tungsten Electrode Sharpener Grinder Head is a perfect choice of TIG welding for those who want a multi-angle cut-off grinder.
This kit features 5 diamond wheels and 4 copper screw holes to cut multi-angle shapes. The installation process is straightforward, and it’s capable of converting your complex grinding task into an easy task.
Besides, it comes with all 4 brass screws that ensure concentricity. Interestingly, all the holes can be used with the same height of diamond wheels, making it easier and convincing to align the wheel.
This Sharpener Grinder Head tool doesn’t only make your welding task more manageable but also saves you time and provides precise tips. That’s why every welder should include this versatile tungsten sharpener grinder in their list for excellent welding performance.
Pros
- Works on multiple tools of the rotary with ease.
- It’s a cordless grinder; thus, it can be used anywhere.
- Comes with a tungsten cut-off port that offers easy cuts
Cons
- The angle isn’t narrow enough.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Tungsten for Aluminum
Here we’ve introduced you to a considerable number of high-quality picks regarding the best tungsten for aluminum. But how should you know to choose the most suitable item for your needs? Not to worry, we’ve set some basic parameters to assist you in scouting and finding the best buy.
- Material
Although you’d be looking for pure tungsten electrodes for welding your aluminum, you may find some variations. There are pure tungsten, 2% thoriated, and zirconiated electrodes available.
If you opt for the purest, go for the one coded with color green. And depending on your supply source, you may not be able to use that, or the squinted one if it’s AC. For a DC source, use 2% thoriated tungsten electrode.
- Available Sizes
You can find tungsten electrodes of various lengths and diameters to choose from according to your source, workpiece, and preference.
There’re electrodes measured from 12.7 mm to 24.8 mm. 1/8” is the most commonly used diameter size for better stability and heat. 3/16” and 3/32” diameter electrodes are also available if you want to avoid sloppy welding or using an AC source.
- Additional Tools
You can either buy single or multiple electrodes only or a package of electrodes, grinders, sharpeners, rotary tools, etc. You might find some uses for them besides welding your aluminum.
Some products also come with dust housing, storage bags too. Some have unique features like flat grinding blocks for using the tip better and multiple holes or cut-off ports for easy machining.
- Pricing
As there are so many brands and marketplace out there, you will have a large range of pricing for tungsten electrodes.
You can buy a pack of 10 electrodes at a price starting from $10 to $30. If you go for a full package, it might even cost up to $240 or more. But prioritize your necessity and purchase what you need. Different sizes also cost different, whereas bundles might cut you some slack.
- Usability
The most important feature of any product should be how well you can use that. Look for quality and stability while using.
Some electrodes might be best for welding some particular alloys with particular current sources. Sizes and weight matter as well as precision because of stationary holes and multi-angle tips for working.
Strong, durable and convenient are set to be basic requirements considering no high temperature or malfunctioning trouble.
FAQs
- What’s the purpose of tungsten for welding aluminum?
Basically, zirconiated tungsten or pure tungsten are mostly used for aluminum welding. Nevertheless, the electrode diameter you will use for AC welding should be quite larger in comparison with DC welding. Additionally, the size of the electrode is recommended as ⅛”.
- Should we use purple tungsten for aluminum?
The Purple tungsten provides worthy ignition features and coherent welding characteristics. You can apply them in both AC and DC welding along with high and non-alloyed steel. Along with it, they are appropriate for aluminum as well.
- What is the purpose of using GREY tungsten?
Well, you can find GREY electrodes performing excellent in all kinds of DC applications. Additionally, if you are looking for welding aluminum, then this is certainly a great pick. Along with it, they are effective for welding copper, titanium, magnesium, and stainless steel as well.
- Is yellow tungsten useful for welding?
The yellow tungsten is basically 1.5% Lanthanated. However, the electrodes of yellow tungsten carry way less lanthanum in comparison with blue counterparts. They excellently perform in all aspects of DC application. Nevertheless, they’re significantly effective for welding copper alloys, aluminum, nickel, titanium, and so on.
- Which of the tungsten is radioactive?
Well, among various tungstens, Thoriated tungsten electrodes are the ones that contain the radioactive element Thorium. 2% of thorium is used in this Thoriated tungsten. This radioactive material can be a threat and risk for health and the environment if not maintained properly.
Conclusion
Using tungsten electrodes for aluminum welding can be a sensitive piece of work, and you’d like to ensure the quality of your work be top-notch, and the perseverance is long-lasting. You might be adept in the workshop processes but have vague ideas about choosing your material, for that matter.
That’s why this article will be a helping hand for you to choose which is the best tungsten for aluminum according to your requirements. We’ve included some lookouts to select the best product judging their cost, usage, and benefits.
Detailed information regarding some of the best available tungsten electrodes are provided to your convenience. Welding isn’t supposed to be a cakewalk but settling for the best component might make you enjoy it a little.
Meta
Picking the best tungsten for aluminum isn’t a piece of cake. But no worries, we’ve done all the homework and narrowed the choices to top 10. Pick yours now.
#1 TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes 2% Lanthanated
Key Features
- Quantity: 10-piece tungsten electrode
- Weight: 0.353 ounces
- Lanthanated: 2%
- Material: Tungsten Electrode
- Size: 3/32”
TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes is manufactured by Midwest Tungsten Service provides tons of features than most of its competitors at a reasonable price. This long-lasted electrode is capable of performing during the most difficult welding applications.
Featuring robust arch-striking and a low burn-off rate, this Tungsten offers ANSI and AWS standards arc. Electrodes that are lanthanide are popular because they are easier to strike an arc with and require less amperage. And, this Tungsten has these!
TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes is 2% Lanthanated and 2% lanthanide blue electrodes perform great in both AC and DC application. This is especially perfect for welding:
- Aluminum alloys
- Magnesium alloys
- Nickel alloys
- Copper alloys
- Titanium alloys
- Low-alloyed steels
- Stainless steels
Pros
- You will get both the AC and DC supplies
- Welds professionally
- Has high-frequency and stable arc
- Provides superior quality at a reasonable price
Cons
- Packaging is not good.
#2 TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes 2% Ceriated
Key Features
- Material: Tungsten
- Quantity: 10-piece tungsten electrode
- Weight: 5.9 ounces
- Ceriated: 2%
- Size: 3/32”
This 2% Ceriated TIG Welding Tungsten Electrodes is manufactured by Midwest Tungsten Service which is a famous American origin brand.
Thanks to this tungsten’s 2% ceriated (grey) it has a reliable arc-strike, high arc quality, and low burn-off rate while complying with ANSI and AWS standards.
Electrodes of grey color are ideal for DC applications and are perfect for welding titanium, copper, magnesium, aluminum, and nickel alloys. They can also be used for welding non-corroding and stainless steel. These long-lasting electrodes are engineered to exact specifications so they will perform even during the most difficult welding applications.
Pros
- Can perform both on DC and AC.
- ANSI and AWS standard quality.
- Can handle up to 160 Amp.
- Can be used on titanium welding.
- Good value for money.
- Reliable brand.
- Increase clarity to the weld “dimes”.
Con
- Sometimes doesn’t fit into the standard collet body.
#3 WeldingCity 10-pcs TIG Welding Tungsten Electrode Tri-Element Non-Radioactive
Key Features
- Material: Tungsten
- Quantity: 10-piece tungsten electrode
- Weight: 6 ounces
- Mixed tri-oxides of Lanthanum
- Non-radioactive Tungsten electrodes
- Size: 3/32”
This Tungsten is made by WeldingCity with a mix of lanthanate, zirconate, and yttrium trioxides with a total rare earth composition of approximately 1.5% – 1.8%; Tungsten remains.
This tungsten are safe and has no radio-active tungsten electrodes. In fact, this tungsten is a perfect alternative to Thoriated Tungsten electrodes.
Supporting a wide amp range and low burn-off rate made its act to star faster. the stability of the arc is also excellent.
Wide current range and low burn-off rate. Easy arc starts and good stability.
Pros
- ANSI/AWS standard.
- The manufacturer is U.S.-based.
- The electrodes are Non-radioactive.
- The burn-off rate is low.
- Supports a wide amp range.
Con
- Doesn’t come with a battery.