535611620C - Nexalloy ER5356 Aluminum MIG Wire 1/16 Inch 20lb Spool

Nexalloy ER5356 Aluminum Welding Wire – 1.6mm Diameter – 20 lb Spool

Nexalloy ER5356 is the industry-standard aluminum-magnesium filler metal, engineered for joining 5000 series aluminum alloys such as 5050, 5052, 5083, 5356, 5454, and 5456. This 20 lb spool of 1.6mm (1/16") wire is optimized for heavy fabrication tasks requiring high tensile strength and ductility. With a typical tensile strength of approximately 38,000 psi (as welded), ER5356 significantly outperforms ER4043 in structural applications where shear strength is a critical design factor.

Metallurgical Properties & Performance
The primary alloying element in ER5356 is magnesium (approx. 5%), with minor additions of titanium, chromium, and manganese to refine the grain structure and improve toughness. Unlike silicon-based alloys (like 4043), ER5356 relies on magnesium for its strength and does not depend on dilution from the base metal to achieve its mechanical properties. This makes it the ideal choice for welding 5xxx series base metals where magnesium content is high. It is important to note that while 5356 is stronger, it should not be used on components that will be exposed to temperatures exceeding 150°F (65°C) for sustained periods, as this can lead to stress corrosion cracking.

Welding Characteristics
The 1.6mm (1/16") diameter is substantial, intended for welding medium-to-thick sections of aluminum plate. This diameter supports higher amperage ranges, facilitating a stable spray transfer arc which is essential for deep penetration and clean weld beads on heavy materials. The wire's inherent stiffness, due to the magnesium content, aids in feeding reliability, especially over longer distances or in push-pull torch configurations. While 5356 generates slightly more "smut" (black soot) than 4043 due to magnesium vaporization, this is easily removed and does not affect the weld integrity.

Applications & Anodizing
This alloy is the preferred choice for architectural applications requiring anodizing. ER5356 welds anodize to a color very similar to the parent material, avoiding the unsightly black contrast seen with 4043 welds. Common applications include marine components, automotive frames, bicycle frames, storage tanks, and railway cars. The 20 lb spool fits standard industrial wire feeders, ensuring you have the capacity needed for extensive welding projects.