Is Welding 6061-T6 Tubes OK for a Fuselage?

[Tom Kay]

Just curious, oh learned ones;

We make fuselages out of chrome-moly tubing that has been welded, either with gas or tig. So, is it acceptable to use 6061-T6 aluminum and do the same? Weld the joints?

If not, why? Heat-affected-zone too big? Loss of temper of the metal? Too much cost ?

Anyone done this? I ask because I'm snooping for an alternative to riveting.

Thanks, Tom.

 

[Dana]

 

[BBerson]

 

[orion]

 

[djschwartz]

 

[Mad Man Mike]

 

[Tom Kay]

 

[Othman]

 

[PTAirco]

 

[Tom Kay]