When it comes to Aluminum Wire, there are two main types of welding wire available - ER4043 and ER5356. They differ in their composition and are suitable for specific welding applications.
ER4043 aluminum welding wire is a popular choice of welding wire for aluminum alloys that contain silicon. It is a softer welding wire that works well for thinner metals ranging from ¼ inch in thickness or less. ER4043 welding wire also has a lower melting point than ER5356 and provides a smoother bead that is easier to clean.
Moreover, ER4043 is widely used in the automotive industry because it is well-suited for reworking automotive bodywork. It is an excellent choice for welding materials of 6061-T6 and 6063-T5, commonly used for automobile frames, wheels, and suspension components. Additionally, the welding wire can be used for welding cast aluminum, except for large structural castings.
Next, the ER5356 is a high-strength and corrosion-resistant welding wire. It contains magnesium, which provides a more robust weld and excellent corrosion resistance. ER5356 is the preferred choice for welding aluminum alloys containing magnesium, such as 5XXX series alloys. It is suitable for thicker metals and has a higher melting point than ER4043. Therefore, it works well for applications requiring a more in-depth penetration and higher mechanical strength.
ER5356 is commonly used in marine, aviation, and construction industries where precision welding is of utmost importance. It is ideal for welding aluminum sheets that require high strength to weight ratio, making it suitable for the manufacturing of gutters, boats, and aircraft.
Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the correct type of wire is used with the aluminum wire feed welder. ER4043 is compatible with direct current electrode negative (DCEN), while ER5356 works well with direct current electrode positive (DCEP).
In summary, it is crucial to choose the right aluminum wire when welding aluminum. For alloys containing silicon, such as 6XXX series, ER4043 is the ideal choice. It works well for thinner metals in applications like automotive bodywork. For alloys containing magnesium, such as 5XXX series, ER5356 is the ideal choice. It is suitable for thicker metals in applications that require high strength to weight ratio. It is essential to ensure that the correct wire is used with the aluminum wire feed welder to ensure optimal results.