
The Oxford Alloys ER4043 TIG Rod (3/32" diameter) is a premium aluminum-silicon filler metal designed for critical industrial fabrication and repair applications. Composed of approximately 5% silicon, this alloy (AlSi5) is engineered to lower the melting point and increase the fluidity of the weld pool, making it significantly easier to wet out compared to magnesium-based fillers like ER5356. This characteristic makes ER4043 the industry standard for general-purpose aluminum welding, particularly when joining heat-treatable base alloys such as the 6xxx series (e.g., 6061-T6) and various cast aluminum grades (e.g., 355, 356, and 43).
One of the primary technical advantages of ER4043 is its ability to minimize solidification cracking. The silicon content narrows the solidification range, reducing the stress on the weld as it cools. This makes it an excellent choice for constrained joints or applications where the base metal is susceptible to hot cracking. While ER4043 typically exhibits slightly lower tensile strength and ductility than ER5356, its superior operating characteristics and bead profile make it indispensable for general fabrication where maximum shear strength is not the sole requirement.
This filler metal meets AWS A5.10 specifications and is processed to ensure a clean, contaminant-free surface, essential for producing X-ray quality welds in aerospace, automotive, and marine environments. It is suitable for service temperatures exceeding 150°F (65°C), unlike 5xxx series alloys which may be susceptible to stress corrosion cracking at elevated temperatures. However, users should note that ER4043 will turn a dark gray color if anodized, making it unsuitable for applications requiring color-matched anodizing.
| Additional Information |
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| Packaging Description:10lb tube |
| Weld Process:TIG |
| AWS Spec :ER4043 |
| Diameter:3/32", 2.4mm |
| Packaging:10lb tube |
| Brand:Nexalloy |
| Polarity:AC |
| Position:All Position |
| Material:Aluminum 4043 |
| Alloy Type:Aluminum-Silicon (5% Si) |
| Length :36 inches |
| Tensile Strength:29,000 psi (typical) |
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