I've made parts of a tank with 3mm aluminium sheet (4 sides, 2 ends and some centre baffles). I'm going to try to get one of the welders at work to tig it together. I've heard tig is very time consuming but not sure how long it takes. There is about 4m of seam all together (in retrospect I should have folded 3 sides but I cut them all).

How long will it take. How much beer/whisky/dosh should I give him. Consumables are free.

I'd estimate 2 hours including setting up and any cleaning afterwards. Probably 30 mins actual welding time but its the set-up and tacking that takes the time. Assuming the joints are all nice and tight.

[Edited on 3/9/13 by FASTdan]