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5356364300C - Nexalloy ER5356 3/64 Bulk Aluminum Wire Drum (300lb)

Packaging: 300 lb drum
$15.80/lb $2,964.00/300 lb drum only $9.88/lbSave 37%

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OVERVIEW

Industrial Grade Aluminum Welding Wire for Automation

The Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum MIG Wire in the 3/64" diameter is a premium filler metal solution designed specifically for high-volume industrial manufacturing and robotic welding cells. Packaged in a substantial 300lb drum, this product is engineered to maximize arc-on time by drastically reducing the frequency of changeovers compared to standard spools. For fabrication shops and manufacturing plants processing large quantities of aluminum, the bulk drum format offers significant operational efficiency and cost savings.

Nexalloy 5356 is an aluminum-magnesium alloy containing approximately 5% magnesium. It is the most widely used general-purpose aluminum filler alloy, favored for its relatively high shear strength and excellent corrosion resistance. This makes it the ideal choice for welding 5XXX series base alloys, such as 5050, 5052, 5083, and 5086, which are commonly found in structural, automotive, and marine applications. Unlike 4043 alloys, 5356 provides a superior color match after anodizing, making it suitable for architectural applications where aesthetics are critical.

One of the standout features of Nexalloy's production process is their proprietary shaving technology. Aluminum wire is prone to surface oxide buildup and drawing lubricant contamination, which can lead to porosity in the weld and feeding issues in the liner. Nexalloy shaves the wire to remove these surface imperfections, resulting in a pristine, smooth finish. This attention to detail ensures consistent electrical conductivity at the contact tip and smooth feeding through long conduit runs, which is essential for automated systems drawing from a bulk drum.

Key Technical Specifications:

  • Classification: AWS A5.10 ER5356
  • Diameter: 3/64 inch (1.2 mm)
  • Tensile Strength: Typically 38,000 psi (as welded)
  • Melting Range: 1060°F - 1175°F
  • Density: 0.096 lbs/cu. in.

This wire is compatible with Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP) polarity and requires 100% Argon or Argon/Helium shielding gas mixtures. It is not recommended for use at service temperatures exceeding 150°F (65°C) due to potential stress corrosion cracking susceptibility in high-magnesium alloys.

Additional Information
Aws Spec:ER5356
Brand:Nexalloy
Diameter:2.0mm (5/64")
Packaging:300 lb Drum
Weld Process:MIG (GMAW)
Polarity:DC
Position:All Position
Material Composition:Aluminum-Magnesium Alloy (5% Mg)
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon, Argon/Helium Mixtures
Wire Finish:Shaved, Clean
Applications:Automotive, Marine, Structural, Robotic Welding
Tensile Strength:38,000 psi (typical)
Packaging Description:300 lb drum

INCLUDED

  • 1 x 300lb Drum of Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum MIG Wire (3/64" Diameter)

APPLICATIONS

  • Automotive bumpers and supports
  • Shipbuilding and marine structures
  • Storage tanks and pressure vessels
  • Railway industry components
  • Truck trailers and bodies
  • Architectural structures requiring anodizing

FAQ

ER5356 is an aluminum-magnesium alloy that offers higher shear strength and better corrosion resistance than ER4043. It is stiffer, making it easier to feed, and provides a better color match for anodizing. ER4043 is an aluminum-silicon alloy that flows better and is less sensitive to cracking but is softer and turns dark when anodized.

For ER5356 aluminum wire, 100% Argon is the standard shielding gas. For thicker sections (usually above 1/2 inch), an Argon/Helium mixture (such as 75% Argon / 25% Helium) can be used to increase heat input and penetration.

Yes, you typically need a drum payoff kit or a "top hat" cone to prevent the wire from tangling as it is pulled from the drum. You will also need conduit to guide the wire from the drum to the wire feeder.

Yes, ER5356 is the preferred choice for parts that will be anodized after welding. It anodizes to a color very similar to the base metal, whereas ER4043 will turn a dark gray or black color.

ER5356 is designed to weld 5000 series alloys (like 5052, 5083, 5086) and can also be used to weld 6000 series alloys (like 6061) to 5000 series. It is generally compatible with 3000, 5000, and 6000 series base metals.

3/64 inch is approximately 1.19 mm. In the welding industry, this is often treated as the equivalent to 1.2mm wire.

Shaving is a manufacturing process where the outer surface of the aluminum wire is mechanically removed. This eliminates surface oxides and drawing lubricants, ensuring a cleaner weld and preventing the buildup of debris in the liner and contact tip.

ER5356 is not recommended for applications where the service temperature exceeds 150°F (65°C). Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can make the 5% magnesium alloy susceptible to stress corrosion cracking.