Skip to Main Content
Canadian
Canadian owned and operated

535633236C - Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum TIG Welding Rod - 3/32 Inch (2.4mm) - 10lb Tube

Packaging: 10lb tube
$14.12/lb $88.30/10lb tube only $8.83/lbSave 37%

In stock

OVERVIEW

Technical Overview of Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum TIG Rod

The Nexalloy 5356 is a premium quality aluminum filler metal classified under AWS A5.10 as ER5356. This general-purpose, non-heat treatable alloy is designed for welding 5000 series aluminum base metals. The composition includes nominally 5% Magnesium, along with controlled additions of Manganese, Chromium, and Titanium. The inclusion of Titanium serves to refine the grain structure of the weld metal, enhancing ductility and reducing crack sensitivity during solidification.

One of the defining technical characteristics of the 5356 alloy is its high shear strength and tensile strength, typically ranging around 39,000 psi (270 MPa) depending on the base metal dilution. Unlike silicon-based alloys such as 4043, the magnesium-based 5356 provides a weld deposit that is highly resistant to corrosion, particularly in saline environments. This makes it the industry standard for marine fabrication. Furthermore, the alloy's response to post-weld anodizing is superior; it produces a bright, clear finish that closely matches the base metal, avoiding the unsightly discoloration often associated with other filler metals.

This 10lb tube contains 36-inch cut lengths with a diameter of 3/32" (nominally 2.4mm to 2.5mm). The manufacturing process ensures strict adherence to diameter tolerances and surface cleanliness, minimizing the introduction of hydrogen and oxides into the weld pool. It is suitable for welding 5050, 5052, 5083, 5356, 5454, and 5456 base metals.

Additional Information
Weld Process:TIG
AWS Spec :ER5356
Diameter:2.4mm
Packaging:10lb tube
Polarity:DC+, AC
Position:All Position
Material Composition:Aluminum Magnesium Alloy
Alloy Type:5356
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon, Argon/Helium Mixtures
Tensile Strength:39,000 psi (Typical)
----- new values below ----
Material Composition:Aluminum Magnesium Alloy
Alloy Type:5356
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon, Argon/Helium Mixtures
Tensile Strength:39,000 psi (Typical)
Rod Length:36 inches
aws-spec:er5356
brand:nexalloy
diameter:2-4mm
packaging:10lb-tube
weld-process:tig
polarity:ac
position:all-position

INCLUDED

  • 10 lb Tube of Nexalloy 5356 Aluminum TIG Rods (3/32" Diameter)
  • Product Label with Heat Number/Lot Traceability

APPLICATIONS

  • Marine Fabrication: Boat hulls, pontoons, railings, and superstructures exposed to saltwater.
  • Automotive Components: Truck bumpers, trailers, and structural frames.
  • Architectural Structures: Anodized window frames, bicycle frames, and decorative aluminum work.
  • Pressure Vessels: Storage tanks and cryogenic vessels requiring high ductility.
  • General Repair: Maintenance welding on 5000-series magnesium-aluminum alloys.

FAQ

5356 contains magnesium, making it stronger and more corrosion-resistant, especially in saltwater. It also color-matches well when anodized. 4043 contains silicon, flows more easily (wets out better), and is less sensitive to cracking but is softer and turns gray when anodized.

Yes, 5356 is commonly used to weld 6061 base metals, especially when higher tensile strength is required or if the part will be anodized. However, for applications requiring sustained high temperatures (above 150°F), 4043 or 5554 might be preferred to avoid stress corrosion cracking.

100% Argon is the standard shielding gas for TIG welding with this rod. For thicker sections (above 1/2 inch), an Argon/Helium mixture (e.g., 75% Ar / 25% He) can be used to increase heat input and penetration.

Yes, ER5356 is the preferred alloy for parts that will be anodized after welding. It anodizes to a color very similar to the base metal, whereas silicon-based alloys like 4043 will turn a dark gray or black.

These rods are 3/32 inch in diameter, which is approximately 2.4mm to 2.5mm. This is a versatile size suitable for welding material thicknesses ranging from roughly 1/8" to 1/4".

Aluminum filler metals should be stored in a clean, dry environment with a consistent temperature to prevent condensation. Keep the container closed when not in use to avoid dust and hydrocarbon contamination from the shop air.

Aluminum TIG welding is almost exclusively done using AC (Alternating Current) to provide the cleaning action necessary to break up the aluminum oxide layer. DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative) is rarely used unless you have specialized helium setups for very thick material.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet