ER5356 Aluminum Wire: MIG & TIG Settings for Marine & 5xxx Alloys
ER5356 Amperage by Diameter
| Diameter | Amperage Range |
|---|---|
| .030" (0.8 mm) | 50 - 130A |
| .035" (0.9 mm) | 70 - 180A |
| 3/64" (1.2 mm) | 100 - 250A |
ER5356 is a magnesium-alloyed aluminum filler wire for MIG and TIG welding. It has higher shear and tensile strength than ER4043 and produces a better anodized color match with the base metal. It is the required filler for 5xxx series aluminum alloys (5052, 5083, 5086) and is preferred for structural marine and high-strength aluminum applications. The 5% magnesium content makes it stiffer and more rigid than 4043, which can cause MIG feeding issues in long cable runs. It is also more crack-sensitive than 4043, particularly on 6xxx base metals. For marine, structural, and anodized-appearance applications, ER5356 is the correct choice.
What This Means in Practice
ER5356 means: ER (electrode rod for MIG/TIG) + 5356 (Aluminum Association alloy 5356, an Al-5%Mg alloy). The 5xxx series aluminum alloys are magnesium-alloyed for strength and corrosion resistance.
ER5356 Suitability Scores
How well this electrode matches common applications. Not a quality rating. all AWS-certified electrodes meet their specification.
When to Use ER5356
5052, 5083, 5086 aluminum (required filler).
Structural marine applications.
Any application where the weld will be anodized and color match matters.
High-strength aluminum fabrication where fillet weld shear strength is critical.
Boat hulls, fuel tanks, truck bodies.
ER5356 Limitations
More crack-prone on 6061 and cast aluminum than ER4043.
MIG feeding is harder because the wire is stiffer and requires shorter cable runs or push-pull guns.
Not recommended for 6xxx base metals in service above 150 deg F due to stress corrosion risk.
More operator skill required than ER4043.
ER5356 Storage Requirements
Keep sealed in original packaging. Store in dry environment. Aluminum wire oxidizes quickly.
ER5356 Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| AWS Classification | ER5356 |
| Process | MIG Welding (GMAW) |
| Polarity | DCEP |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical up, overhead |
| Penetration | medium |
| Coating Type | solid wire |
| Tensile Strength | 38,000 psi |
| Yield Strength | 17,000 psi |
| Elongation | 18% |
| Base Metals | 5052 aluminum, 5083 aluminum, 5086 aluminum, 5454 aluminum, 5xxx series aluminum |
| Shielding Gas | 100% Argon |
| AWS Specification | A5.10 |
ER5356 Questions
Is ER5356 stronger than ER4043?
ER5356 has higher shear strength (26 ksi vs 15 ksi for ER4043) and higher tensile strength (38k psi vs 26k psi). For structural aluminum applications, ER5356 is the stronger choice.
Can ER5356 be used on 6061 aluminum?
Yes, but ER4043 is often preferred for 6061 because it flows better and is more crack-resistant. ER5356 on 6061 works but requires more attention to technique.
Why does ER5356 match color better when anodized?
ER5356 contains no silicon, so anodized welds match the base metal color. ER4043 contains 5% silicon which turns dark gray or black when anodized, creating a visible weld line.
Where to Buy ER5356
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External Resources
Manufacturer data sheets and standards for ER5356.
Data sourced from AWS A5.10/A5.10M. Amperage ranges are approximate starting points. adjust based on position, fit-up, and material thickness. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and applicable codes.