Aluminum MIG/TIG
GMAW and GTAW with aluminum alloy solid wire for aluminum fabrication, marine, and automotive applications.
Aluminum MIG/TIG Electrodes
ER4043
The general-purpose aluminum MIG and TIG wire. Flows easily, resists cracking. Default choice for most aluminum welding.
ER5356
High-strength aluminum wire for 5xxx series alloys. Better color match, higher shear strength than 4043.
ER4047
12% silicon aluminum wire for brazing, tight-joint welding, and applications needing maximum fluidity and crack resistance.
Aluminum Welding Wire Questions
What wire do I need to weld aluminum?
For most aluminum welding, use ER4043. For 5xxx series alloys or when you need higher strength and anodizing color match, use ER5356. Both require 100% argon shielding gas.
Why is aluminum so hard to weld?
Aluminum has high thermal conductivity, a tenacious oxide layer (melts at 3700F vs 1200F for the base metal), and no color change before melting. These properties require different techniques, cleanliness, and equipment settings compared to steel.
What shielding gas for aluminum welding?
Use 100% pure argon for both MIG and TIG aluminum welding. Helium or argon-helium mixes can be used for thicker sections to increase heat input. Never use CO2 or argon-CO2 mixes on aluminum.