I have to weld a non-ferrous metal. What does non-ferrous mean, and what things do I need to be careful about?

TWI Frequently asked questions

by Tasos Kostrivas

The term non-ferrous applies to a metal or alloy in which the major constituent is an element other than iron. Thus, the definition non-ferrous excludes irons and steels. Examples of non-ferrous systems include copper alloys, nickel alloys, aluminium alloys, titanium alloys, magnesium alloys and refractory metals.

Welding strategies specific to the most common non-ferrous alloy groups are described in Welding non ferrous metals and alloys.