Any expert welder? Can a cracked hub flange be welded?

I've a Campagnolo Record high-flange front hub, but unfortunately the flange has a crack in it running from the outer edge into one of the windows. I'm alright with welding steel, but I've never welded aluminium and I've got no idea if it'd be safe or not - I asked a local engineering works (who have welded up a stem at the bolt hole before and it was fine) who said they'd happily do the work, but they couldn't be certain about the strength of the hub. Presumably it's forged construction - does anyone know if it could be successfully welded and used again?

If not, I'll just make it into a bottle opener or something.

it's fucked.

.

dibs on the campagnolo bottle opener.

Campagnolo Record bottle opener it is. Kips, your dibs has been noted.

Er, nope, I reckon it's just too heavily loaded- You could use the barrel and insides as a base for a medium flange hub, or re-flange it at huge expense of time/ your labour or money.

+1

once they are cracked, only really good for decoration.

Turning the outer part off though and putting fresh holes in could be a job though, only really worth it (£££ wise) if you are competent on a lathe & can put fresh holes in it.

^ Yeah I have access to a lathe. Already got a set of low-flange Record hubs though. I'd rather have a cool bottle opener tbh.

Could make it in to a coffee tamper ala chris king

Or a salt shaker.

don't think it would stand up to opening bottles TBH.

a coffee tamper is actually a mint idea, do it. Or lastly, cast it into a block of glass and use as an uber paperweight.

I think it'd be fine for bottle opening. Those little keychain bottle openers that estate agents etc always give you are aluminium.

door knobs

Cut it in two down the centre.
Find a tube that will jion the ends back together in a decent interference fit.
Attach small hook to your toliet wall the distance between the flanges, appart.
You'll have the cooolest loo roll holder out there.

You'll then need a matching hub to cut in two, and use for tap handles.

Got to keep the theme going afterall.

All excellent ideas. What about a bicycle-themed alternative to Kanye West slatted sunglasses?