ESAB’s new Aluminum Optimization Kit features a number of tools to modify ESAB wire feeders and welding guns to improve feedability of aluminum wire and reduce “birdnesting.” Aluminum wire easily bends or twists when pushed through a typical MIG welding wire feeder and gun system. This often leads to excessive rework and wasted material, as well as increased labor costs and reduced production. ESAB’s Aluminum Optimization Kit provides a means to modify wire feeders and welding guns to minimize extraneous motion of the wire during the push-pull process, thereby reducing feedability problems. The kit includes a jumper sleeve, liners for 0.035” and 3/64” wires, center and outlet wire guides, groove drive rolls, plated contact tips and a plated nozzle. The kit also includes “The Welding of Aluminum Pocket Guide,” a manual to help welders better understand aluminum welding, overcome its challenges, and improve aluminum welding productivity.