Electrode use for aluminum

Date 03-06-2009 17:40

We use 6106 extruded Al tube in our daily applications. We have been using ER4043 electrodes in GMAW for splices. What is the recommended electrode for 6106 alloy? I know that for 6061 and 6063 alloys (which are primarily used for structual applications) ER4043 is recommended. We use 6106 because of its better electrical characteristics.
Help

By Ke1thk

Date 03-06-2009 18:13

4043 or 5356 (see footnotes in D1.2). 4043 is gives more of a brighter weld (better looking) while 5356 is a stronger weld. 4043 will leak more than 5356 if your welding a tube assembly using 6061 material, and pressure testing the part.

Keith

By DaveBoyer (*****)

Date 03-07-2009 05:46

I find the 4043 easier & more plesant to run than 5356. If the 4043 meets Your needs, I wouldn't change.

By bozaktwo1 (***)

Date 03-10-2009 17:02

I would have to say that the choice of filler depends mainly upon what other processing the weldment is subjected to, such as heat treatment or anodize plating. You cannot heat treat 5356 filler. As for the anodize; the 4043 will turn almost black in the process. So if it has to be pretty, 5356 is your best bet. 4043 or 4047 if PWHT is required. Like Dave, I agree 4043 runs much cleaner than 5356 no matter how you're set up.