Volfy; First you must have mis read something in the Finch book. Shield gas is a definite in any Tig process. I have that book, tell me what page that statement was on and Ill check it out.

The smaller Invertec welder only does DC so you cannot weld aluminum with it. For welding aluminum you need AC. Look at the 175 amp TIG welder that Lincoln sells, Miller and Hobart also sell similar machines and with a little shopping you can usually find one for less than $1500.00


If you can find a local Vocational school that offers a welding class take it. That should give you a chance to try all different kinds of welding processes before buying.
Adam