535603516C - Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum MIG Wire .035" 16lb Spool

High-Performance Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum MIG Wire

The Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum MIG Welding Wire is a premium general-purpose filler alloy designed for welding 5XXX series aluminum alloys. As a 5% magnesium alloy, it offers superior strength compared to 4043 filler metals and is the industry standard for structural aluminum welding where high tensile strength is required. This specific formulation includes controlled additions of manganese, titanium, and chromium, alongside a reduction in silicon content. These chemical adjustments refine the grain structure and significantly enhance corrosion resistance, making it the premier choice for marine environments exposed to saltwater.

One of the defining characteristics of the Nexalloy 5356 is its excellent feedability. Due to the magnesium content, the wire is stiffer than 4043, allowing it to feed more reliably through MIG guns, especially in push-pull systems or standard push guns with shorter liners. This rigidity reduces bird-nesting and downtime, ensuring a smooth, consistent arc during extended welding operations. The wire produces a deposit with a high shear strength and good ductility, although it is slightly less ductile than 4043.

In terms of aesthetics and post-weld processing, Nexalloy 5356 is the preferred choice for components that will be anodized. Unlike 4043, which turns a dark gray or black after anodizing due to its silicon content, 5356 maintains a color that closely matches the base metal, resulting in a seamless, professional finish. This makes it ideal for architectural applications, automotive parts, and visible structural elements.

Technical Specifications and Applications:

• Base Metal Compatibility: Ideal for joining 5050, 5052, 5083, 5356, 5454, and 5456 alloys. It is also compatible with 6XXX series alloys like 6061, provided the service temperature does not exceed 150°F (65°C) to avoid stress corrosion cracking.
• Melting Range: Approximately 1060°F to 1175°F.
• Shielding Gas: Requires 100% Argon or Argon/Helium mixtures for thicker sections.
• Current: DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive).

This 16 lb spool provides a substantial quantity of material for industrial fabrication shops, minimizing changeover time. The 0.035-inch diameter is versatile, suitable for thin to medium gauge materials, offering a balance between deposition rate and heat input control.