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40433641C - Nexalloy ER4043 Aluminum MIG Wire 3/64 (0.045) 1lb Spool

Packaging: 1lb spool
$15.40/lb $9.63/1lb spool only $9.63/lbSave 37%

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OVERVIEW

Nexalloy 4043: The Versatile Choice for Aluminum MIG Welding

Welders looking for a reliable and forgiving aluminum wire will find the Nexalloy 4043 1 lb spool to be an essential addition to their consumables inventory. Classified as ER4043, this wire is an aluminum-silicon alloy containing approximately 5% silicon. This composition provides distinct advantages over magnesium-based alloys like 5356, particularly regarding weldability. The silicon content increases the fluidity of the puddle, allowing the metal to flow smoothly into the joint toes, which helps reduce the risk of lack of fusion defects and creates a more aesthetically pleasing profile.

This specific spool is a 1 lb (0.45 kg) package, designed primarily for direct-connect spool guns. Feeding aluminum wire through a standard 10-15 foot MIG torch liner is notoriously difficult due to the wire's softness; using a spool gun with this 4-inch diameter spool eliminates bird-nesting and ensures consistent arc stability. The wire diameter is nominally 3/64", which is frequently interchangeable with 0.045" drive rolls and contact tips in the aluminum welding context.

While ER4043 has slightly lower tensile strength and ductility than ER5356, it compensates with superior crack resistance. It is the preferred filler metal for welding 6000-series base metals (Al-Mg-Si) and is also suitable for welding 5000-series alloys with less than 2.5% magnesium. It is also capable of operating at higher temperatures than 5356, making it suitable for service temperatures above 150°F (65°C). Whether you are repairing a cracked transmission housing or fabricating a custom aluminum bracket, Nexalloy 4043 delivers the performance and consistency professional welders demand.

Technical Specifications

  • Alloy: AlSi5 (ER4043)
  • Diameter: 3/64" (approx 1.2mm) / 0.045" compatible
  • Shielding Gas: 100% Argon or Argon/Helium mix
  • Current: DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive)
  • Storage: Keep dry and covered to prevent oxide buildup
Additional Information
Brand:Nexalloy
AWS Spec:ER4043
Diameter:1.2mm (0.045")
Packaging:1 lb Spool
Weld Process:MIG (GMAW)
Material:Aluminum
Polarity:DCEP
Alloy Type:AlSi5, Aluminum-Silicon
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon, Argon/Helium Mixtures
Tensile Strength:27,000 - 29,000 PSI
Melting Range:1065°F - 1170°F
Spool Size:4 in (1 lb)
Packaging Description:1lb spool
Position:All Position

INCLUDED

  • 1 x 1 lb Spool of Nexalloy ER4043 Aluminum MIG Wire (3/64" / 0.045" diameter)
  • Protective plastic wrapping
  • Box packaging

APPLICATIONS

  • Welding 6XXX series alloys (e.g., 6061, 6063)
  • Automotive components and heat exchangers
  • Bicycle frames and aerospace components
  • Truck trailers and loading ramps
  • Repairing cast aluminum alloys (e.g., 356.0)
  • General maintenance and repair operations

FAQ

ER4043 contains silicon, which makes it more fluid and crack-resistant, ideal for 6XXX series alloys. ER5356 contains magnesium, offering higher strength and better color matching for anodizing, but is more prone to cracking on some heat-treatable alloys.

100% Argon is the standard shielding gas for MIG welding aluminum. For thicker sections, an Argon/Helium mixture can be used to increase heat input.

It is highly recommended to use a spool gun. Pushing soft aluminum wire through a standard long MIG torch liner often leads to feeding issues and 'bird-nesting'.

They are very close. 3/64" is approximately 0.047". In the welding industry, 0.045" and 3/64" aluminum consumables (tips/drive rolls) are often grouped together, but you should check your specific equipment's requirements.

No. ER4043 typically turns a dark gray color after the anodizing process due to its silicon content. If color matching is critical, ER5356 is usually preferred.

MIG welding with aluminum wire requires DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive), also known as Reverse Polarity.

Yes, ER4043 is often used to weld cast aluminum alloys like 356.0 because its silicon content matches the chemistry of many casting alloys.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet