Aluminum Tig Wire Suppliers Hangzhou Kunli

Hangzhou Kunli Welding Materials Co., Ltd. is located in the industrial zone of Puyang Town, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. We are a high-tech enterprise dedicated to the research, development, and manufacturing of high-performance aluminum alloy welding wire and aluminum alloy wire.

With over 20 years of experience in aluminum wire production, our company is equipped with internationally advanced manufacturing lines, comprehensive testing equipment, a stable production process, and a strict quality control system to ensure consistent and reliable product performance.

Recently, our Aluminum TIG Wire has gained strong popularity in both domestic and international markets, thanks to its excellent welding performance, clean appearance, and stable quality.

What is Aluminum TIG Wire?

Aluminum TIG wire is a type of filler metal used in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, specifically designed for welding aluminum and its alloys. It plays a key role in producing clean, high-strength welds with excellent corrosion resistance. Unlike steel welding, aluminum TIG welding requires precise heat control and a compatible filler wire to avoid defects such as porosity or cracking. Aluminum TIG wire is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and marine engineering, where lightweight and durable welds are critical.

What is Aluminum TIG Wire Made Of?

Aluminum TIG wire is typically made from refined aluminum alloys, selected based on the base material and desired welding properties. The most common grades include:

   ER4043 – An aluminum-silicon alloy (typically 5% silicon) known for good flow characteristics, minimal cracking, and a smooth weld finish. Ideal for welding 6xxx series alloys.

   ER5356 – An aluminum-magnesium alloy offering higher strength and better corrosion resistance, often used in structural, marine, and transportation applications.

   ER5183, ER5554, ER1100, and other grades – Used for more specialized applications based on mechanical or chemical requirements.

How to Choose the Right Aluminum TIG Wire for Your Project

Selecting the right aluminum TIG wire depends on several key factors, including the base material, welding conditions, mechanical requirements, and final application. Choosing the correct alloy ensures strong, durable welds and minimizes the risk of cracking, porosity, or discoloration.

Here are some key considerations:

Base Alloy Compatibility

Match the wire alloy to the material being welded. For example, ER4043 is ideal for welding 6xxx series aluminum (like 6061), while ER5356 is recommended for 5xxx series or applications requiring higher strength and corrosion resistance.

Weld Strength and Ductility Requirements

ER5356 generally offers stronger welds with better ductility, making it suitable for load-bearing or structural applications.

Corrosion Resistance

For marine or outdoor environments, ER5356 is often preferred due to its superior resistance to saltwater and atmospheric corrosion.

Weld Appearance and Finishing

ER4043 tends to produce smoother weld beads and less smut, which can be beneficial for aesthetic or visible welds.

Post-Weld Heat Treatment

Some filler wires are more suitable for components that will undergo heat treatment. Always consult the alloy compatibility chart or a welding expert.

Can Aluminum TIG Wire Be Used for Both Thin and Thick Materials?

Yes, aluminum TIG wire can be used for both thin and thick aluminum materials, but the key lies in choosing the correct wire diameter, amperage, and welding technique.

Thin Materials (below 3 mm / 1/8 inch):

Use smaller diameter wire (e.g., 1.0mm or 1/16 inch) with lower amperage. A steady hand and proper heat control are essential to avoid burn-through. ER4043 is often chosen for its fluidity and good flow.

Thick Materials (above 3 mm / 1/8 inch):

Larger wire diameters (e.g., 1.2mm to 1.6mm) with higher current settings can be used. ER5356 is commonly selected for its higher strength and good penetration, especially in structural and load-bearing applications.

Common Industries That Use Aluminum TIG Welding Wire

Aluminum TIG welding wire is used across a wide range of industries due to its strength, lightweight properties, and corrosion resistance. The industries that commonly utilize aluminum TIG welding wire include:

Types of Aluminum TIG Welding Wire

Aluminum TIG welding wire comes in various alloys, each designed to meet specific application requirements. The main types of aluminum TIG welding wire include:

Difference Between ER4045 and ER5356 Aluminum TIG Wire

ER4045 and ER5356 are two commonly used aluminum TIG welding wires, but they have distinct differences in their composition, properties, and ideal applications. Here's a breakdown of these two welding wires:

Can I Use Aluminum TIG Wire on DC or Does It Require AC?

When it comes to aluminum TIG welding, Alternating Current (AC) is generally preferred over Direct Current (DC). This is due to the unique properties of aluminum and the challenges it presents during the welding process. Here's why:

AC for Aluminum TIG Welding

Oxide Layer Removal: Aluminum naturally forms an oxide layer on its surface that can hinder proper fusion during welding. AC welding alternates between positive and negative cycles, which helps to break up the oxide layer. The positive cycle (electrode positive) cleans the aluminum surface, while the negative cycle (electrode negative) focuses on heat input and fusion.

Heat Distribution: AC provides balanced heat distribution, which is important for welding aluminum, as the material tends to conduct heat away quickly. This ensures good penetration and reduces the risk of burn-through, especially on thin aluminum sections.

DC for Aluminum TIG Welding

While DC welding can be used for aluminum in some cases (especially with certain electrodes or when working on very specific types of aluminum alloys), it is not generally recommended. The primary issue with using DC is that it cannot effectively clean the oxide layer on the aluminum, leading to poor weld quality and potential contamination.

However, if DC is used (specifically DCEN - Direct Current Electrode Negative), the technique may work in some specialized situations, but it’s not the most efficient or preferred method for general aluminum TIG welding.

How to Store Aluminum TIG Wire to Avoid Contamination

Proper storage of aluminum TIG wire is crucial to ensure high-quality welds and to prevent contamination during the welding process. Here are some guidelines on how to store aluminum TIG wire: