404311636C - Nexalloy ER4043 1.6mm (1/16") Aluminum TIG Welding Rod - 10lb Tube

Technical Overview of Nexalloy 4043 Aluminum TIG Rod

The Nexalloy 4043 Aluminum TIG Rod is a premium-grade filler metal designed for the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) process. Composed of aluminum with a 5% silicon addition, this alloy (AWS A5.10 classification ER4043) is one of the most widely used general-purpose aluminum filler metals in the industry. The addition of silicon significantly depresses the melting point of the alloy, providing exceptional fluidity and wetting characteristics. This makes the 4043 alloy particularly effective for welding heat-treatable base alloys, specifically those in the 6XXX series (such as 6061 and 6063) and 3XXX series, as well as cast aluminum alloys like 356.0.

One of the primary metallurgical advantages of Nexalloy 4043 is its ability to minimize solidification cracking (hot cracking). The silicon content creates a weld pool that remains fluid longer, allowing stresses to redistribute as the weld cools. This characteristic makes it the preferred choice when the welding application involves rigid structures or when the base metal is susceptible to cracking. However, it is important to note that while 4043 provides excellent weldability and bead appearance, it is not recommended for applications requiring anodizing for color matching, as the high silicon content will turn the weld area a dark gray or black color after the anodizing process. For structural applications requiring high shear strength, 5356 may be a superior alternative, but for general fabrication involving 6061, 4043 remains the industry standard.

This product is supplied in a 10lb tube containing 36-inch cut lengths with a diameter of 1.6mm (approximately 1/16 inch). The 1.6mm diameter is ideal for welding thin-to-medium gauge materials, offering precise control over the weld puddle. The rods are manufactured to strict OEM specifications, ensuring consistent chemistry, diameter, and surface finish for reliable arc stability and defect-free welds.