Welding aluminum

By dash Date 05-03-2010 23:04

We are preparing to weld a 3000 series aluminum with 4043 Al mig wire using argon for the shielding gas. We are also going to weld lifting eyes that are a 6000 series that will be welded to the 3000 series with 4043 mig wire. My company is bad about using what they have on the shelf instead of what is needed for the job. I was wondering if this combination of Al series and mig wire would be alright or not? the metals ranges from 10 gauge to a 1/4 thick. The lifting eyes are 1/2 thick 2"x3".

By tazmannusa (**)

Date 05-04-2010 00:35

I think I would be more incined to use 5356, lot stronger than 4043. Do a couple test welds and take a sledge hammer to them and see
Farm code 101
Tom

By burleigh26 (**)

Date 05-04-2010 01:00

4043 is good for anything without a bind, but i would use 5356 in his situation. company i used to work for, if they caught you useing 4043 on anything, get ready for a a** eating. you might be alright using 4043 on it exept the pad-eyes. i wouldn't take a chance.

By DaveBoyer (*****)

Date 05-04-2010 01:53

I would use 4043 unless somebody came up with a WPS that said otherwise. While 5356 is stronger, You are only welding it to 3xxx. The 3xxx plate is the weak link.

By dash Date 05-04-2010 02:44

I will try a stress test my company doesnt want to listen until something breaks. thanks for your help

By bozaktwo1 (***)

Date 05-04-2010 17:05

According to Table 4.2 in D1.2 (2008), ER4043 is the correct filler.