181509243A - ESAB OK Autrod 5356 Aluminum MIG Wire .035" (16lb Spool)

High-Performance ESAB OK Autrod 5356 Aluminum MIG Wire

The ESAB OK Autrod 5356 is a premium quality aluminum-magnesium alloy wire designed for the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) of 5XXX series aluminum alloys. Recognized globally as the most widely used general-purpose filler alloy, it offers an exceptional balance of mechanical strength and corrosion resistance. This specific product is supplied in a 7.26 kg (16 lb) spool with a wire diameter of .035 inches (0.9 mm), making it an ideal choice for industrial fabrication shops requiring consistent throughput and reliability.

Engineered with a magnesium content typically greater than 3%, the OK Autrod 5356 provides relatively high shear strength compared to 4XXX series fillers. It is the preferred choice for welding base materials such as 5083, 5086, 5454, and 5654. One of its standout features is its excellent resistance to corrosion, particularly in salt-water marine atmospheres, making it a staple in the shipbuilding industry. While the alloy is non-heat treatable, its as-welded mechanical properties are superior for structural applications where durability is critical.

Fabricators should note that while 5356 is robust, service temperatures should be kept below 65°C (150°F) to avoid susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking, a characteristic inherent to high-magnesium aluminum alloys. The wire is manufactured to strict OEM specifications by ESAB, ensuring a clean surface finish that promotes smooth feeding and a stable arc. This reduces common aluminum welding issues such as burn-backs and bird-nesting, provided the welding equipment is correctly set up with U-groove drive rolls and Teflon liners.

Additionally, the OK Autrod 5356 is an excellent choice for applications requiring post-weld anodizing. Unlike 4043 alloys which turn dark grey, 5356 maintains a good color match with the base metal, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing finish for architectural and visible structural components. Whether for automotive parts, defense equipment, or transportation containers, this wire delivers the professional results expected from the ESAB brand.