Quote Originally Posted by Rambozo View Post
Yes the TIG process with AC is a more precise and potentially more cosmetic process for welding aluminum. It also requires a bit more skill and practice. Aluminum in general will require more practice to get quality welds. It is much less forgiving than steel as far as settings and technique. For typical farm duty a spoolgun using MIG is probably the way to go. Don't bother going down the teflon liner and short gun route, as a novice it will cause you nothing but grief. I would advise that you get more steel MIG welding under your belt, before switching to aluminum. The skills you acquire will go a long way to a better first experience with aluminum.
Thanks for your reply and being on topic with the concern that I have.

Concerning making these 4' * 8' troughs, they will be 12" high and filled with water to about 8" . what thickness of aluminum should I be looking at. I know I will have to reinforce the sides longitudinally . The bottom (outside)will have a 1/2" 4'*8' OSB for support.

Thanks, as a novice you always second guess yourself especially when you make a last minute change. I additional reasons I chose the MTS 251si (over the 200DV) is because of greater power, longer duty cycle, and it seems like Mig will be faster when I start doing aluminum over the TIG aluminum process. It is probably way more machine than I will need and I most likely will never outgrow its capabilities I again thank you for your reply.