Best "No Welder" Aluminum Welding Rods? Alumiweld vs Bernzomatic vs Hobart
BRANDS TESTED: Hobart, Blue Demon, Bernzomatic, Master-Weld, Saker, Iceyyyy, Simple, and Alumiweld (sold at Harbor Freight). Which low temperature welding or brazing rods are best? Low temperature welding rods are designed to melt at approximately 730F while aluminum melts at approximately 1220F. All welding rods tested for melting point, tensile strength, and other bonding characteristics. The best performing brand is really put to the test when it is used to patch a hole in a cylinder head. Hope you enjoy the video!
➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel: / projectfarm
➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together.
➡ Merch: www.Project-Farm.com
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➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
Hobart: amzn.to/3d1L7s1
Blue Demon: amzn.to/2StbCxk
Bernzomatic: amzn.to/33t2yi4
Master-Weld: amzn.to/2GgcfYD
Iceyyyy: amzn.to/3d0jQ9G
Saker: amzn.to/3jxRVQz
Simple: amzn.to/36tgtXv
Alumiweld: www.harborfreight.com/8-piece...
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/2SvwQdS
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC
The top 4 low temperature aluminum brazing/welding rods are pretty impressive, and I’ll definitely be using them in the future. Also, thank you for generously supporting the channel. I’ve never had any sponsors and plan to keep it that way to ensure unbiased test results. An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together. I’m looking forward to reading your suggestions for future video ideas! Thanks again, Todd
can you make a video of cars less vacuum for car
I'm surprised you didn't test safety glasses that go over regular glasses, as you have glasses. Could you test them as well?
Thanks, that's one of my requests
NEXT PROJECT BEST CONCRETE MIX :) or best epoxy granite mix both to achieve super strenght without looking at cost im going to test it by myself for making cnc out of granite /epoxy granite or concrete but it will be great to see your comparsion Probably epoxy wont get most views and it is expensive thats why concrete will be better option PS if u will test epoxy granite remember to first mix epoxy with hardener then add gravel sand etc
Thanks for the video idea.
I love how you are so selfless, not accepting sponsorships, and giving good, accurate results that represent real world temps. Keep it up.
I appreciate that! Thanks, will do!
What's The Doug Score, you have the best screen name ever! "THIIIISSSSSS IS......"
@@sheafloyd9904 Oh why thank you. You are the first person to get it.
@@sheafloyd9904 I was thinking the same thing
@@chrisman3673 great minds think alike lol. Have an awesome day sir!
Manufacturers: *Claims literally anything at all* Project Farm: We're gonna test that.
Thanks for watching!
why I love this channel
I think I speak for everyone when I say I LOVE the fact you jumped right into the review and there was no filler material to extend the length of the video. 100% facts and testing throughout the entirety of the video. Excellent editing and awesome job!!
Thanks so much!
Pssst. Stop assuming you speak for everyone. Stop. Don't do it.
That was impressive. I have never even considered this type of product, believing the ads to be all hype. Thanks for showing us/me they do work. Blessings to you and yours as always. I believe you are living proof that there are ways to make a living, demonstrate ingenuity, and use common sense in everyday situations and conditions. Not all the smartest people teach at Harvard. Clearly.
Thanks so much!
They are surprisingly good. You can get a traditional aluminium brazing system but the flux is corrosive and the melting point is close to that of the base metal. The advantage is that it flows into joints like lead solder. Done right, it’s a brilliant system but it needs practice.
I remember going to an auto swap show back in the 1980s where some guy was demonstrating "aluminum welding rods" and everybody was like "yeah, right...psssshhh" But we all stood there and watched. He had an Oxyacetylene torch sure enough, he was able to weld all the bits and pieces of aluminum he had. My buddy purchased the "kit" but it only came with a Propane torch and it cost over $50 (that's in 1980 dollars!) and it didn't work very well...we just could not get the surface hot enough with the propane torch. Never considered MAPP gas though and since we were barely shade tree mechanics, we had no access to anything else. So for us, this thing was a bust! Glad I stumbled across this video though because I do have some aluminum I need to repair and a Harbor Freight a couple of miles down the road!
I’ve been waiting for a video like this. Bought some CHeAP rods off Wish that were too close to the aluminum melting temp and they simply didn’t stick. I had given up but will now try to get some Hobart rods. Thanks!!
Yeah the smartest people teach at Yale
You know by scrolling the comments below I actually think you have the most polite crowd anywhere.
Thanks for watching! I do have an outstanding support group of the most polite viewers you could ask for!
I agree with schlaznger. Who could be rude in an atmosphere that Project Farm delivers? Fast paced, no click bait, useful information, just enough humor to keep it lively...etc
I assume this is because this channel reviews items that are useful in creating and working to keep things moving. In his videos he tries to derive his finding on scientific methodology and factual information. It is most appealing to people who are pragmatic and use their time constructively, rather than being emotionally driven ego centrists whose primary goal is to make them feel good about themselves and get offended by anything they do not agree with.
Let's see, gets to the point, great tests, not selling anything, totally honest on his tests, did I say he is not selling anything? I have not seen a better poster. Most important he doesn't make videos about things he knows nothing about. Most youtube videos can actually be dangerous if you follow their advice. I trust this guy. Easy to be polite.
Think? Its a fact man lol
I have absolutely ZERO interest in the product you're reviewing, however, your reviews are so entertaining that I actually watch all of them!
Thanks so much!
You will when you bust an aluminum casting. This stuff is far better than many welders give it credit.
Even worse for me, I have interest in some, but most products do not exist in the EU/Germany :(
@@whuzzzup conrad Has some stuff, I have durafix for over 10 years, I'm from the Netherlands... Search for aluminium löten. There are some suppliers..
I seen 'JohnnyQ90' use them on a home made engine, seem to work OK for him..
What I LOVE about this channel is that during every video, I start trying to make my own decision based on cost, but by the end of the video the information is so well measured and laid out that performance and material units are what I can confidently make a decision on and not have to worry about "getting my money worth" since I know the value is already factored. Thank you again PF.
You are welcome!
I went to the comment section to say this exact thing. It’s as if you stole the thought right from my brain. I greatly appreciate this man’s channel because his reviews and testing saves me so much time and money.
There are some things I will cheap out on, other things I won't. But regardless of what I'm getting and which way I'm going, I consult Project Farm to see what he says about it. Oh, and I will cheap out on the power tool itself, as I know HOW to use a 3/8" Hyper Tough drill as a Hole Hawg. But the bits? They will be top of the line.
I contribute timestamps to a community database where intros, fluff, sponsorships, and generally irrelevant segments occur within KZhead videos. I have never found anything to contribute for Project Farm videos. Ever. This guy puts effort into not wasting our time. You're a legend, mate 🇦🇺 🇺🇸
Thanks!
I’m convinced you’re the smartest man alive. You’ve found a way to buy tools and not a single objection from the wife!
Thanks so much!
If I only had his Genius~!!!
Yeah I like my tools also. I wish I had another Conex box to keep some in. My wife told me several years ago that I was going to have to quit bring in more tools and such in when I came home from work and such or she was going to leave my ass. Well I don't have no shortage on tools but I kind of miss the old lady every now and then. Especially when I need my certain tool shined hahaha. Have a good day
The key to buying any tool you need without objections from the wife is do the home improvement work yourself, you save money from doing it yourself even with buying the tool. Win, win.
@@mkat_551 what key? I thought that was the whole point of buying tools to begin with is to do your own home repairs. I mean, why would you go out and buy tools and never use them around your home? That would be kind of like buying a parachute if you have never been flying and never plan to. I mean, maybe you could tell your buddies hey I got this cool parachute I keep it stuck away in my attic, you never know when you might need one. Oh well good evening. Oh wait before I go how long have you been married?
*Lawn Mower sees the high definition camera being set up* Please Mr. Project Farm, no more please.
lol. Nice!
Normal peoples lawnmowers : Minecraft Project Farms lawnmower : Darksouls III prapare your anus edition
Lol
@@kaanyildirim8972 you must have had a good time in prison.
Lawn mowers were harmed during this film 🤣
Thank you for doing this video, not long ago I had to downsize my shop and therefore lost the ability to weld whenever I wanted so I turned to brazing. The first few rods I bought were really bad, I melted the aluminum plate before the rod. Because of your video, I went to Home Depot and grabbed the Bernzomatic and I am enjoying it so much I am now making art brazing it all together. Thank you, I have started binge-watching your videos because like you, I have many different hobbies along with being a Mechanic and a Journeymen Electrician. Not bragging just saying what you do has helped me a lot.
You are welcome! Glad to hear!
I picked up the H. Freight stuff but Benzomatic looks better overall.
Do you have any updates on the brazing of aluminum? Are you still using Bernzomatic aluminum rods? Do you have any important tips for cleaning?
How do you get it to stick? It's not sticking. It melts but doesn't stick.
@@ESLinsider The trick is to try to heat the aluminum close to the temperature that the brazing rod melts, I hope this helps
I actually have used the Harbor Freight ones a few times now. They work quite well for some small projects, like making a bracket with a bolt welded/braised to it. It does indeed end up being stronger than the materials themselves! I've even used it mixing a steel bracket with an aluminum bolt... held up under impact tightening. Thank you for the video!
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
Once again an interesting test with a good experimental design that will definitely save folks money.
Thank you!
I love watching this channel definitely worth watching each one ya learn alot
Could do without the last test. Just seems silly
@@amiester3thou258 Could do without your comment
You are one of the only KZheadrs that I truly believe has the desire to actually help viewers. You are so sincere and thorough with your tests. Ever since I bought my dream car, I’ve only used products you’ve shown to take care of my paint. Thank you
Thank you so much 😊
Whats your dream car?
Kush Mull Pontiac firebird
Kush Mull Grand Prix GT Supercharged in blue-green crystal
BTW, I've no affiliation however Chemical Guys I've loved for car detailing stuff for 15 years also. They're reasonable and seem to actually be chemical formulation guys rather than soap resellers.
Please do not stop doing these studies, your guidance and the way in which they are done unbiased i love you dude, please stay true to this, I just feel so trustful in my purchases. Thank you so much
I appreciate that! Thanks!
I bought the Hobart brand (and also most products based on the reviews from your channel) and I have to say they exceeded my expectation. Your review channel as always very informative and non bias reviews. Thank you
You are welcome!
God... these videos are so good. I don’t even do half this stuff but I still watch every video.
Thanks so much! Thanks for watching!
Do I weld? No Was I totally engrossed for reason I dont know, absolutely. I love how none of this is fluff, just *bam* facts and excellent presentation with a smattering of humour
Thanks so much!
Same
In my life I’ve used maybe 5% of the products PF has tested, and I might use another 3% before I’m in the ground. Yet I’ve watched at least 90% of the episodes, some multiple times, and often when I’m stressed and need to distract my mind.
Same here. I will definitely never ever weld anything in my life. Even so, I know which brands others who do won’t be using 😄
This is the second Project Farm review that I've watched. I was amazed when I realized that I wasn't subscribed. I fixed that el Pronto! Totally thorough and a keeper in my favorites!
Thanks for watching and subscribing!
Very impressed with how you tested these products. I had heard that these rods are rubbish and not worth the time and effort but you have demonstrated that Hobart, Bernzomatic etc are viable products for non-critical repairs on alloy bikes, boat dingies etc. in an emergency.
Thanks!
Considering the aluminium and not the weld breaks first, it's more of a permanent repair, just like if you had tig welded it. Welds tend to be stronger than the base metal.
Infrared thermometers are sensitive to the reflectivity of the surface they are pointed at. They are most accurate with a flat black color and become less accurate with increases in reflectivity. I mention this because you mentioned that the shiny silver weld was cooler than the black cylinder head and that reflectivity might be why you thought it was.
Oh ok.. I have wondered about the wobbles in my thermometer. I actually learnt something today. Thanks!
Thanks for the feedback.
While true, it isn't likely to make a factor 2 difference unless we're talking about a literal mirror finish (which this is not)
yep, look at a piece of copper with a thermal camera it is basically like a mirror. A quick fix it to put a piece of kapton tape on
Does thermal imager camera also work on infrared light?
I love how in your reviews you add in the possibility of user error instead of throwing the product under the bus like some other reviewers do. It makes it extremely easy to recommend your videos to other people who could use the information.
I totally agree, just honesty without ego.
Hello PF ~ I've seen ads for this type of "AL Brazing" rod several times, mostly on KZhead, so I really appreciate your putting together a very fine test for all of us non-welder types. I spent an entire career in the electrical test, measurement, calibration and repair field, so I've done lots of soldering in my day, which, naturally, lends itself to anything requiring a heat source in one hand and the work material in the other...which, by the way, is exactly why learning to TIG weld has also had a strong appeal to me. Anyway, I clearly understood that your test results have you favoring the Hobart brand rods as your "best in test," but I'm not exactly sure that I caught the rest of your top four. If it's not too much trouble, would you kindly list your top four for me. Thanks again and please keep up the great work...and, yes, I've liked and subscribed to your channel, sir.
The quality of your tests always amaze me. It's rare that I watch videos and feel that they did as good a job as I would do. In other words, "if you want a job done right, do it yourself... or have Project Farm do it."
Thanks!
Had to watch this with no earbuds and my wife asks "What are you watching?" I told her about Project Farm and how you test so many things like oil, wiper blades, Seafoam, etc. "Is that why you put on new wipers and had me buy that different oil for the car?!?" 👍
Thanks for watching!
Funny because during this video my wife came in and asked what I was watching. I told her how awesome this channel is, that he without sponsors or bias tests all these items. She didn't share the same enthusiasm that I did.
@@philc9305 neither did my gf, we broke up after that
literally my wife too.
@@ldfelix you guys should spend more time with your "other halfs" and less on KZhead lol
This is a top tier channel. I don’t know how you put up weekly videos and manage to keep the quality this high.
Wow, thanks!
I want to thank you for that detailed review, have been wanting to build some canopies for my trikes from aluminum tube and it gets exhausting trying to find reviews as thorough as this. You have answered all my questions by showing me. Awesome!
Thanks! Glad to hear!
Aluminum brazing rods are extremely useful. Your tests, as always, top notch! Thanks for the video! A++
Hey man. What kind of projects would you use these for?
You are welcome!
@@ProjectFarm I adore your sense of logical approaches to doing your testing. How long did it take you to do this test?
@@PJBonoVox I've used them for making aluminum brackets for things like motorcycle side-bag mounts. Had a buddy drive over 3000 miles with some aluminum L brackets bent and cut and brazed with Alumiweld for strength in areas I thought suspect to stress, that I had made into ammo can mounts for his motorcycle and they worked flawlessly. Then he went off-roading with it, rolled it down a 30ft hill with the ammo cans on the bike...still held up. I'm impressed and so was he. I've also used it to plug holes in aluminum valve covers, aftermarket oil catch cans that had holes in places I didn't want them, etc. I patched up some loose wires on a wire rack too. Next project is fixing a whisk.
I agree, I have never used them before. Now I probably will go buy some and do some my own testing. Didn't realize how useful they would be in the field when you only need some heat.
This man cannot be stopped! Always coming at us with very well organized videos, always with the same can-do energy. This man is a born teacher and we're lucky to have him! You've now become, unequivocally, my favorite KZheadr by far!
Thanks so much!
he's what i imagine a classic hard working man with American spirit to be
Project Farm: 1. Smart as a whip 2. Willing to go that extra mile 3.Excellent teacher 4. Thorough in organization of lesson plans 5. Generous in sharing 6. Easy to access via KZhead As the saying goes; "Who could ask for anything more?" Consider yourself one of America's great teachers. I really appreciate all of your efforts, Project Farm, you've saved me a lot of money and a lot of time. I'm sure that there's more than myself that would like to share a little time with you; maybe over a cold drink and a bite to eat. Thanks again.
That’s the LEAST I can do is leave a comment. You have again gone above and beyond the expectations of product testing!! Great job sir!!! Thank you!
You are welcome!
You do such an amazing job on your research and reviews I truly appreciate all of your hard work! You make the DIYers life much easier! Kudos always project farm!
Thanks!
Great video. I like the detailed tests. Thank You
Years ago I remember repairing a Wisconsin engine that had a cracked aluminum head. Just wanted to try to see how well it would work. Surprise Surprise the head is still going strong to this day. The number of hours I would say on the repair is maybe five six hundred hours. Never had to deal with the head ever. Great stuff I used but do not remember what the brand was. Nice test with all the different brands. I remember that one of the brand rods with flux did not work for me either. My neighbor told me that I did not use the rod correctly so I gave him the pack. The next day he said the rods must of been made in CHINA as they did not work for DO DO. Thanks for letting us all see the test Sir. Good day and stay virus free too. VF
I had similar luck, but when the crack between the exhaust and coolant jacket, i never got a seal, just too hot! like this dudes hotplate that heated that brigs head to 700, we used to do that while racing in about the same amount of time. LOL, not kidding.... take care, thanks for the awesome comments.... . .. .. .
Thanks for sharing!
@@andyp3834 Thanks Andy for the info. V
When I saw some rods not stick very well that got me wondering if regular paste soldering flux would work on the Al based metal or not. I bought some of these rods awhile back but have not used them yet.
@@BloopTube But for how long ??
These videos are a bright light in dark days. Seriously I get so happy when I see you upload. I’ll see the notification during the day and I look forward to it all afternoon, till I finally get to watch at night laying in bed. I love these videos, thank you!
You are welcome!
Thank you for putting together such thorough, unbiased testing and reviews. Every time I've got questions about some kind of product, you seem to have a video! And I value them very much.
Thanks so much!
I sure do enjoy your videos. You get right to the nitty gritty of things. It is a good thing we have people like you to do all the tests that you do. Thank you very much.
You are welcome!
I was waiting for, " non toxic to humans, we're gonna test that!"
Thanks for watching!
First you have to heat the human up to 750°, then we can test the rod...
As long as you keep it below 1600°F you're fine, go over that and you get boiling, burning zinc -- the fumes affect people differently but the symptoms range from minor respiratory symptoms to all-out allergic reaction! Same reason you shouldn't weld galvanized steel (and if you do have to, do it with very good ventilation).
That's more something Cody from Cody's Lab would do!
Cool name dude
13:08 Metals, especially shiny ones do not do well on a thermal imaging camera due to their emissivity values. Most cameras have a calibration factor to get accurate readings but it's not a good solution on mixed material/surface measurements. It's definitely a lot more visually interesting but the best method to get accurate temp readings is a thermocouple!
Thanks for the feedback.
i see,...cats are smart indeed! will these rods work on electric arc welders?
@@fidelcatsro6948 I've never tried, but I think TIG would be worth a shot. This Old Tony (another youtuber) has a video on TIG brazing.
@@ProjectFarm paint it with black BBQ spray or any hi temp paint and compare readings.
@@JustAnotherGuyInTheComments i only have an arc welder alas...;(
Wow. Just wow. I just found your videos tonight looking for the best glue to finally keep my shifter knob to stay in place for my 97 f150. I've been watching what else you have for over an hour. Great appreciation. Thanks.
You are welcome!
Love these video's, you are fast. accurate and clear! Thank you for your editing with no wasted statements or time.
Thank you very much!
I don’t think I’m ever going to buy welding rods but this is just entertaining to watch.
Thanks so much!
You should do one comparing torque wrenches like different brands test them for accuracy and reliability
Great recommendation! Thank you
I'd also really like to see this. Also be interesting to see if accuracy is effected when a clicker style torque wrench is left at a setting (not reset to zero after every use). Thanks for the great content!
I believe he did one or at least someone on you tube did
@@ProjectFarm Yes Please! Compare the cheap Harbor freight, the more expensive harbor freight, and name brand torque wrenches, I need to buy one soon!
Same here. That would be great
Thank you for this thorough and extensive information - who knew? Very impressive! I am ON it! Thank you again, Lilli
You are so welcome!
I love your videos for entertainment value, but I also find them invaluable for the practical information they provide. Thanks, and keep them coming!
Thanks, will do!
I can't believe I'm 24 minutes late, I'm sorry I let you down project farm I didn't get my notification I'm normally here in the first min a video goes live. Please forgive me I'll do better next Monday
That is ok! Thanks for catching it when you did!
You have brought shame upon this family. You must honor the old ways n fall on your sword lol
The notification squad is disappointed in you.
I didn’t have time to watch it while at work so I just opened it up and hit the like button. Just finally watched it now though. Lol
@joshua j Not good enough. You have to eat the banana used as motor oil.
Video idea: Windshield washer fluid : how do they compare, price, performance, etc. Winter is coming and would be awesome to know which washer fluid I should be using.
I always buy just about any brand and then add at least 1 bottle of ethyl alcohol to the jug. Methyl and isopropyl can degrade rubber hosing.
@@michaellinner7772 I put in whatever I find at AutoZone or O'Reilly's. Never had an issue but would love to see how they all compare.
Cold temperatures aren't a problem for me because for one, I live in california, and my e-class has a heated windshield washer tank.
@@andreyka64 the only reason I add the extra alcohol is that when it gets really cold like under 10 degrees F some solutions can start to freeze and no longer flow. The alcohol is cheap insurance.
Thanks for the video idea.
WOW!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU, FOR THIS ERY INTENSIVE, DETAILED, COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION!!! MUCH APPRECIATED!!!!
I love that you get so excited about what you are doing, it really makes it fun to watch and technically, ticks all the question boxes .......keep them coming
Thank you so much!
Been using Hobart sticks for a long time and I believe in them. Never done any TIG welding not have I used aluminum brazing rods. Hobart is the way to go, though for the price, the Harbor Freight brand held up pretty well.
Thank you!
well, thank God the world has welders like you and others. not my foray, but cu-does bro; cu-does (sorry, your not old like me, i meant thanks a bunch bro!)
Get some Esab Atom Arc rods and you'll never look back.
@@andyp3834 Don't take this the wrong way, more me just trying to boost your vocabulary if you care. It's Forté and kudos. I totally understood what you were saying, just trying to be informative and not corrective.
@@lunchboxproductions1183 For arc welding? Like 7018? Not sure the scope, just asking to clarify. Thanks
I'm so thankful for this channel.
It means a lot to me. Thank you!
I love how you have stayed true to who you are and not let the money you make take over. You are one of my favorite youtubers that I subscribe to and I hope you keep doing what your doing.
Thanks, will do!
Welding and Brazing are always interesting to me since I own a die shop. Spent most of my welding days welding high carbon steel and tool steel. Not easy to do but successful for over 42 years now. I was never a farmer but worked on a farm for three years when I was younger. I have a GREAT appreciation for this chanel and the American Farmer!
Thanks so much!
Would LOVE to see a video demo of welding tool steel! And yes, farmers repair and design more stuff than engineers (and I’ve worked with both)-- they’ve GOT to! (Skin in the game)
Amazing. I didn't even know low-temperature aluminum welding was a thing.
Thanks for the feedback.
It's not this is called brazing, not to be a know it all but welding is when the base or parent metal and the rod both have to melt and fuse together , this is more like soldering
@tyvek05 Brazing describes the process, not the materials used. There are many types of brazing which involve no copper-containing filler rods, although the most common example involves brass or bronze.
I have never been disappointed by a Project Farm video. I've also actually learned useful things. Thank you. Thank you.
You are welcome! Glad to hear!
three years ago, you made the exact video that I need to start making the art I want to make. Thank you for this!
You are welcome!
I didn't even know this was a thing. I play with golf carts, which use aluminum frames, so this could come in handy.
Thanks for sharing.
Could you elaborate upon "play with golf carts"? I'm curious what this entails
@@skizzik121 Buy, repair/build, sell, keep, drive, etc. Frames are often aluminum, as are some of the aftermarket parts, and they're subject to corrosion and occasional breakage. This gives an option for some of the repairs needed versus riveting.
Same here. Had no idea this was available. Fixed a fuel pump a few days ago. Used the same method, but did it with soldering wire instead.
These rods definitely take the headache out of aluminum brazing... no acid flux paste to deal with. I wouldnt use these for any high pressure application.
“We’re gonna test that!” - love it when he says that.
Thanks for watching!
Make us some t-shirts to buy with that saying
@@gibby7616 That's a good idea. I would even buy one, and I'm cheap.
@@ProjectFarm Make us some T-shirts with that saying on them so we can show we were early supporters!!
One more reason to like the Hobart brand, and another outstanding video from Project Farm; arguably the best product test/comparison videos on any platform. Thanks for doing what you do!!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Love your test methods! I used Bernzomatic on a tea pot (my wife's) with a hole in the bottom, Worked great! Thanks for helping me be a hero and I look forward to your other videos.
Thanks so much! Thanks for sharing!
Wow, i was blown away that the cylinder head stayed together. “Very Impressive!”
You are welcome!
PF:“The manufacturer claims XXXXX..... we are going to test that” Manufacturer: Cue beads of sweat on forehead
Lol I pictured this in my head when he said it! Lol
L
Lol they aren't worried, maybe if PF used ISO standards then they might, but none of his test even resemble ISO standards.
@@chronicblazer84You’re probably right. However , everything he test is available to your everyday consumer and most people would rather see a real world practical test than read and try to understand an industry standard from a spec sheet.
I'm really impressed with your test procedures. Because of your testing, I no longer use several products, I thought were good. Thanks for the information.
Thank you!
And now Hobart brand aluminum rods are all sold out on Amazon lol. I love your channel. You make life easier when it comes to searching for the best product for your buck. Thanks again brother
I was told by a sales guy to never use a grinder or sandpaper on the aluminum for prep, but to use a new fresh stainless steel brush to prep the part and to do this right before the welding. The faster you do this, the better the result as oxides happen very fast. I have been using these for years on antenna parts for large ham radio antennas and never had a failure due to weld strength.
Thanks for sharing.
Yes, you are mostly correct, if you use sandpaper or grinding wheel that has been previously used with steel it will affect the welding process. As small steel particles will get imbedded into the aluminum and cause hard spots because it doesn't melt at that temp. Stainless steel brushes are best for aluminum and old use with aluminum. As far as I know anything can be used with aluminum as long as it is new and never used with steel. That is what I learned at welding school.
What brands do you use for your antennas?
@@himesjon I'm not sure of the brand on the 1st ones I purchased as I purchased them about 20 years ago at Dayton Hamvention, but I have been using the harbor freight ones and they are identical to the ones I overpaid for in Dayton!
100% correct, all of these welds should be re done with a fresh staino brush and then re tested for the true strength of the product. I also use them, but durafix brand, and they are awesome for repairing ally boats.
I never knew I needed this.
Thank you!
Your like the big uncle a lot of us never had! Your fans love you! Not in a weird way. Thank you for doing all you do. Your videos and information are always top quality.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Really respect that you give each company a second chance if their result is very low.
Thanks!
13:07: most likely the welded area seems cooler because it is clean shiny metal, and partially acts as a mirror for the infrared camera. So part of the measured value is due to the temperature of the room. The trick to avoid this, is to apply some non-reflecting substance to the metal.
good catch! next time he should spray paint (if its gonna get hot). If not, just stick some masking tape on it
Great point!
@@DROGOC0P wait what, masking tape?
Not just that, but aluminum is good at dispersing heat - there's a reason it's used as a heat sink for air cooled devices.
What? am i stupid or what?
I jumped on here wondering if garden hose sprayers have ever been compared. Kinda bummed this hasn't been done. This channel is awesome. Everything about it. Methodical testing, real world comparisons, no sponsorship, great audio and video, informative, and enjoyable to listen to. Simply, entertaining and informative.
Great suggestion! Thank you.
@@ProjectFarm quality/flow rate of various spray selections, ease of adjustment, hand fatigue due to ergonomics and lever effort. Ability to be dropped/tossed and not break lever, lever pivot, or spray adjustment mechanism. If dropped, how lijely to just start spraying. Thumb adjust v. rear lever v. front lever, v. straight type like a fire hose. Oxidation resistence. Can it withstand being left out in the sun or over the winter. Compare residential use to reasonably priced professional grade nozel(s).
Excellent review of this topic and products. Your tests are great and well described. I bought the Harbor Freight Alumaweld rods (on sale) and they worked great on a repair of an aluminum casting I made. It was a thick piece but I brought the whole thing up to 550F and then used a torch to get to 750F in spots and it flowed like butter. It grinds just like the parent aluminum material. I didn't even know this stuff existed until I needed it and was so glad you had sorted through the various brands. Kudos!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for taking the time to show us! That's great, now i can move on to fixing some stuff!!!
You are welcome!
What I really appreciate about this video is how great it is in showing the ease of use with the products. Some of the more difficult ones may have great specifications, but if it's that hard to use in a test rig, well I certainly don't want to struggle using it in real life applications, negating any rated benefit! Also, it was fantastic to see other things like how well they flow, as I tend to prefer a better flow with less buildup, as in most circumstances a repair needs to be low profile, Bernzomatic it is for me from now on! As always, thanks so much for continuing to produce such useful videos for all of us!
You are welcome! Thanks for watching.
Could you test PTFE tape? (plumbers tape) I've used it extensively at my college for all sorts of engineering projects and I've noticed that there is a vast difference between the cheap stuff and the way pricey stuff like swagelok.
Great test idea! Thank you
@@ProjectFarm if you go this route please make sure Blue Demon is in the test group. I've used it with great results, and got the recommendation from some very experienced plumbers.
Yes!! Leak tests
White, pink, and grey are three different thicknesses I've seen. Ive also seen different application methods stated, from simply wrapping around the thread to doing a crisscross and then a wrap through the middle.
Thanks again for your informative presentation. I've used Harbor Freight brand rods with a propane torch and was impressed with how well they worked. Glad to see I made a good choice.
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
You always have a video for something I'm looking for! I need to repair a piece tubular aluminum, but I was skeptical of these rods. Going to pick up a pack today.
Glad I could help!
I'm not sure how, but every time you review a product, it happens to be one I was just about to learn how to use. Thanks for what you do.
You are so welcome!
Literally the same for me... Ill see something a week ago that makes me wonder..then sure as shit boom here it is..bout to build a cold air intake this way...good info
I doubt that the repaired patch was actually cooler. It likely just has a lower emissivity which would lower your thermal camera reading. Great test! I've messed around with these rods before and would have killed to have this review beforehand.
Thanks so much! !
#metoo I've been hoping that Project Farm would do a video on these rod for a few repairs I have.
Not sure about that either, I think it just wasn't transferring the heat because it was only on the surface, it couldn't act as a heatsink like the surrounding aluminum because of the large hole (slice behind it).
You, sir, do a wonderful job. I truly realize and appreciate all of your hard work. This video was on point as I don't have a welder and may need this information soon. Thank you so much.
You are welcome!
Thank you for this aluminum welding rod test. I really appreciate it for my future projects. 👍
I have watched tons of your videos and never made a comment until now. Great videos and thorough information. I was further impressed to see you have merchandise which you never push in video like all others.
Awesome, thank you!
Those Iceyyyy brand rods seem to be just plain old aluminum rods and not brazing material.
Yes, I agree. They definitely aren't low temp
@@ProjectFarm Filler rods for Henrob Dillon?
@Kris Nicholson the alloy used for filler is what makes welding and brazing different. brazing by definition is using a different filler metal that sticks to the base metal without melting it. welding is melting the base metal and using a filler that mixes with the molten base metal, usually a fairly similar material. so what you mean is that you would rather gas weld aluminum than gas braze. The word weld or braze defines the process. You can't braze with filler material that's the same as the base material.
@Kris Nicholson Even flux is not enough unless you have a bare finish that is displayed for artistic/preservation/conservation reasons. I would in most cases perfer the zinc/al alloy in the low-temp rods for actual "getting work done". At the point you need flux it's welding not brazing; and while welding is possibly better, It still may require a heat-treatment for full strength (see the bolt failrures form the annealling and/or embrittlement), quality gas welding of aluminum requires skills not commonly seen since the 1940s. At that point you should be using a oxygen-enriched flame for percision anyway, and thats a whole other skill.
I bought some of the Iceyyyy rods. They are just aluminum TIG rods. The ones I received had the 5356 identification pressed into one end. I tried TIG welding with them and they melt and flow just like 5356 rods. Definitely not as advertised.
Glad that you repaired and tested the cylinder head, (eternally only). It's good to know that such a repair is possible.
Thank you for the feedback!
I enjoyed these test results. I found them while searching your channel for a comparison of LP/MAPP torches. Years ago I was a plumber and favored Turbo Torches for professional work. They were quick and even and capable of brazing, and weren't difficult to clean spilled flux and solder from their nozzles. Their current prices against their competition suggests they may still be among the very best.
Map is hotter/faster more $ bt worth it.
Another great test. There was a chap over here in the UK that used to demonstrate Lumiweld at all the County fairs around the Country back in the 80s. He used to smash old gearbox casings to pieces and stick them back together using this stuff. It was very impressive, and he sold loads, but I never thought there would be any difference between the brands. How about cutting a piston up and reweld it and see how long it runs for 👍
Thanks so much! Thanks for the video idea.
I still have some I bought at a state fair in 1983!
Is that the same bloke who goes to the big car shows selling those Ali sticks, he is from Belgium or Holland, and he also sells brilliant files.
Exceptionally thorough and informative, as always. Thank you for all of your efforts in putting these videos together, you're doing consumers across the globe a valuable service!
You are a Hero. Amazing tests and done in a way that gives everyone such valuable knowledge. Thanks for doing this for everyone.
You are welcome!
That was a great video I always wondered how well these aluminum welding/brazing rods worked , Thank you so much
You are welcome!
Can't tell you how much I appreciate all the work you put into these videos and how much I gain from them. You seem to choose projects for us that are practical, scientific in a practical way and interesting. You never disappoint. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Wow, thank you! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
“Saker, the worst and most expensive out there” perfect advertising.
Thanks for the feedback.
I used Simple Welding they are GREAT. Saker FAKE RODS.
@@mirjanailievska9525 ; SAKER = Sham + FAKER
Yea they seem like complete rubbish. I easily get better results than that using oure zinc from anodes.
pronounced sucker for the way it leaves you feeling
You are the man. Detailed and you hit the target at all angles! You answered all questions!! Have you seen the melting plastic repair stuff? You use a light system to melt a plastic rod and it hardened
Thanks for sharing.
Very cool to see how well the Cylinder head held up! Very interesting that the weld was cooler than the surrounding area also.
Harbor Freight Aluma-weld did an awesome job on my repair. Dewalt 7491RS table saw up/down adjustment was stripped out on motor assembly. Completely filled in thread hole (or lack of) on motor. I believe it was a 14mm...fairly large bolt assembly. Drilled and retapped and year later no signs of thread wear with lots of wood put through the saw. One thing not done here and I believe in directions it said to scratch surface as your welding with a stainless pick the break surface tension. Do not really know why it worked but, for sure was a better weld when I was scratching the surface with pick I made from a spoked wheeel.
Excellent test ! Always wondered about the difference in quality, performance, and of course, strength ! Have purchased a number of these, but have yet to try them ! Appreciate the effort to allow us to see them perform ! Great ! Thank you !
Thanks so much! Thanks for sharing.
Your videos sure have helped me make some wise choices on buying different brands, thanks for sharing your videos and keep them coming please.
Thanks, will do!
Ordered a pack of Hobart from your link! Thanks for your hard work!
I dont think I'll be needing aluminum welding rods anytime soon but do I really appreciate the work you put into these videos! Outstanding as always
Thanks so much!
I remember months ago I watched this thinking I wouldn’t need this, but just bought an aluminum boat and this is my dream video you’re seriously the best!
Thanks!
I don't think I've ever commented to one of your videos. Although I find them extremely educational. This one fits me the best. I'm a welder / fabricator but lack the ability to weld aluminum. Buying the spool gun, Argon bottle and lead liner for my Lincoln 255 is out of my price range. I heard about these rods decades ago but never tried them. Now I will! Awesome job! You scratched my itch. Tickled my fancy. Thank you!!
Thanks! Glad to hear!
Low temp welding rod: *exists* JB-WELD: finally a worthy opponent, our battle will be legendary
Thanks for the feedback.
That sounds like an awesome showdown. Hobart Vs JB-Weld.
@@Anomaly188 hobart wins. Jb weld is not strong enough.
@@ProjectFarm This would make a good video!
@@zosxavius JB weld: ARE YOU SURE ABOUT THAT?!?
Wow, just wow! Your testing methodology is really impressive. Great job!
Thank you!