Clean, simple way to strip oxide from aluminum.

[Mike_In_Plano]

Hello All,

I'm normally over on the electronics forum, but recently I had a problem crop up regarding the spot welding of aluminum foil. I've seen the end results of the process, so I know it can be done cleanly. For that matter, I've seen pieces that predate laser welding, etc, so I'm confident it doesn't involve exotic technologies.

My question is this:

Given that I can process and weld the foil in a glove box, what would be the best ( cleanest / safest ) way to prep the foil for welding ( i.e. strip off oxide and leave a clean surface )

Thanks in advance,

Mike

 

[mgb_phys]

800 grit sandpaper ?
Or Phosphoric acid