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53560355 - ER5356 Aluminum MIG Welding Wire .035" (5 lb Spool)

Packaging: 5lb spool
$13.84/lb $43.25/5lb spool only $8.65/lbSave 37%

In stock

OVERVIEW

The Workhorse Wire for Structural Aluminum Welding

When you need a weld that is going to hold up to vibration, stress, and the elements, ER5356 is the wire you reach for. This .035" Aluminum MIG wire comes on a convenient 5 lb spool, making it perfect for smaller fabrication shops or portable spool gun setups. Known as the "marine grade" wire, it is the go-to filler metal for welding on boats, trailers, truck beds, and gangways where strength is non-negotiable.

If you have struggled with soft aluminum wire jamming in your drive rolls or birdnesting at the feeder inlet, you will appreciate the 5356 alloy. It is naturally stiffer than the 4043 variety, which means it pushes through the liner with less friction and fewer feeding headaches. While a spool gun is still highly recommended for this .035" diameter to ensure the smoothest operation, the added stiffness of the wire gives you a bit more forgiveness in your setup.

Welding with 5356 produces a weld puddle with a slightly different feel than 4043; it flows a bit less wet but gives you excellent control over the bead profile. You might notice a bit more black soot (smut) on the edges of the weld—this is normal for magnesium alloys and wipes off easily. Just remember to prep your base metal thoroughly with a stainless steel wire brush and acetone before you strike an arc. Whether you are fixing a pontoon boat or fabricating a custom aluminum frame, this wire delivers the professional, durable results you need.

Additional Information
Aws Spec:ER5356
Diameter:0.035 in
Packaging:5 lb Spool
Weld Process:MIG (GMAW)
Polarity:DC
Position:All Position
Material Composition:Aluminum Magnesium Alloy (AlMg5)
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon, Argon/Helium Mixtures
Tensile Strength:39,000 psi (Typical)
Alloy Type:5356
Spool Size:5 lb
Packaging Description:5lb spool
Brand:Lincoln Electric

INCLUDED

  • 1 x 5 lb Spool of ER5356 Aluminum MIG Wire (.035" diameter)

APPLICATIONS

  • Automotive bumpers and supports
  • Structural frames in shipbuilding and marine applications
  • Storage tanks and pressure vessels
  • Railway industry components
  • Truck trailers and bed fabrication
  • Architectural structures requiring anodizing

FAQ

100% Argon is the standard shielding gas. For thicker sections (typically above 1/2 inch), an Argon/Helium mix can be used to increase heat input and penetration.

It is highly recommended. While 5356 is stiffer than 4043, .035" is still soft enough to cause feeding issues (birdnesting) in standard MIG torches longer than 10 feet. A spool gun or push-pull system ensures reliable feeding.

It is designed for welding 5000 series alloys (Al-Mg) like 5052 and 5083. It can also weld 6000 series (like 6061) when higher tensile strength is required, though 4043 is often preferred for 6061 to prevent cracking.

Choose 5356 for higher strength, better ductility, and if the part will be anodized (it matches color better). Choose 4043 for smoother flow, less smut, and lower crack sensitivity on 6061 base metals.

No. Alloys with more than 3% magnesium (like 5356) are not recommended for service temperatures above 150°F (65°C) due to susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking.

DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive) is the standard polarity for MIG welding aluminum.

Cleanliness is critical. Remove all oil and grease with a solvent (like acetone), then remove the surface oxide layer with a dedicated stainless steel wire brush used only for aluminum.

Typical as-welded tensile strength is approximately 39,000 psi (269 MPa), depending on the base metal dilution and welding parameters.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet