How to Select a Reliable Aluminium Alloy Rivet Welding Service Provider? Six Evaluation Criteria

Aluminium alloyRivet Welding Service ProviderThe Importance of Choice
Aluminium alloys are widely utilised in sectors such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and shipbuilding due to their lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and high-strength properties. However, welding aluminium alloys frequently presents challenges including porosity, heat-affected zone cracking, and distortion, placing exceptionally high demands on the technical capabilities of processing service providers. How does one select a reliable partner from the multitude of service providers? This article systematically outlines six evaluation criteria to support informed decision-making.

Criterion One: Technical Qualifications and Industry Accreditation
Authentication is required.

ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certification: Ensures that service providers maintain stable quality management processes.

Specialised industry certifications such as Aerospace AS9100 and Automotive IATF 16949.

Welding qualification certification: for example, AWS (American Welding Society) certified welders, EN 287 international welder qualifications, etc.

Equipment and Process Certification

We possess specialised welding equipment for aluminium alloys (including AC pulse TIG welders and variable-polarity plasma welders).

The Welding Procedure Specification (WPS)/Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) complies with AWS D1.2 "Specification for Welding Aluminium Alloys".

Criterion 2: Expertise in Materials and Manufacturing Technology
Identification Capability of Aluminium Alloy Series

Distinguish between non-heat-treatable alloys (e.g., 1xxx, 3xxx, 5xxx series) and heat-treatable alloys (e.g., 2xxx, 6xxx, 7xxx series).

Understanding the welding characteristics of different alloys: for instance, aluminium alloy 5052 exhibits excellent crack resistance, whilst 6061 requires strict control of heat input.

Selection of welding processes

Thin plates (<3mm) are best suited to TIG welding, whilst medium-thick plates may be welded using MIG welding.

In aerospace components, it is necessary to master high-precision processes such as Variable Polarity Plasma Arc Welding (VPPA).

Criterion 3: Quality Management System and Inspection Capability
Process control

Pre-welding cleanliness control: Remove oxide scale through chemical cleaning or mechanical polishing.

Purity of protective gas: Argon gas purity shall be 99.9911% or higher (TP3T). Equipped with a dew point detector.

Non-destructive testing capability

Equipped with X-ray, ultrasonic, and penetrant testing apparatus.

We provide inspection reports compliant with standards such as ASTM E164 Welding Inspection Specifications.

Criterion 4: Case Experience and Industry Reputation
Review of Successful Cases

We request the provision of case studies for similar projects (e.g., automotive body welding, ship deck structures).

Examine its proven track record in complex structures (such as irregular curved surfaces and the joining of thick and thin plates).

Customer feedback and reputation within the industry

Inquire about corporate ratings through industry associations (e.g., the China Welding Association).

Refer to customer reviews on third-party platforms (e.g., Alibaba Industrial Products).

Criterion 5: Research and Development and Problem-Solving Capabilities
Process Optimisation Capability

Can welding parameters be optimised using DOE (design of experiments)?

Addressing special requirements: for example, developing low-heat-input processes to minimise deformation.

Defect Analysis and Correction

We provide microstructural analysis reports (SEM/EDS) for welding defects (such as porosity and cracks).

Possess welding process simulation capabilities (e.g., deformation prediction using Simufact Welding software).

Benchmark 6: Supply Chain and Service Level
Delivery capacity and lead time

Assess whether production capacity meets demand and whether the capability exists to handle urgent orders.

Raw material procurement channels: Whether partnerships exist with renowned aluminium material suppliers (e.g., Alcoa, Alcoa China).

Afta Services and Technical Services Portfolio

We provide welding technology training and on-site process guidance.

We guarantee the quality assurance period and provide regular follow-up.

Proposal for the Selection Process
Preliminary selection: Narrow down candidates to 3–5 companies based on qualifications and track record.

On-site inspection: Investigate factory facilities and quality management processes.

Test specimen testing: Requires the provision of weld test specimens and the implementation of third-party inspection.

Overall assessment: The final decision shall be made after comprehensively considering the quotation, delivery schedule, and service.

Judgement
Selecting a reliable aluminium alloy rivet welding service provider requires a multifaceted assessment encompassing technical capability, quality, and service. It is recommended that enterprises focus not solely on price, but rather prioritise technical compatibility and consistent quality within long-term collaborative relationships to ensure product performance and production safety.