Zhengzhou Chuanwang Welding Material Co. Ltd.
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About Aluminium Welding Wire

How should I choose welding wire for different thicknesses of aluminium plates?

  • Thin plates (0.5mm–3mm)

    Use thinner wires (0.8mm–1.2mm) to better control heat input and reduce the risk of burn-through. MIG welding is recommended for more precise joints.

  • Medium thickness (3mm–6mm)

    Wire diameters between 1.2mm and 1.6mm are suitable for ensuring enough deposited metal during welding. Both MIG and TIG welding are suitable, with MIG being more efficient for faster work.

  • Thick plates (6mm–12mm)

    Larger diameter wires (1.6mm–2.4mm) help ensure proper joint strength and weld integrity. TIG welding is commonly used to achieve clean and consistent results.

  • Extra thick plates (over 12mm)

    Wires from 2.4mm to 6.0mm support higher deposition rates for heavy-duty applications. TIG welding or multi-pass welding techniques are recommended to ensure full penetration.

For best results, select welding wire based on the thickness of the material, welding method, and required mechanical performance. This ensures better control, productivity, and weld quality.

Which welding wire should I use for common aluminium plates?

  • Pure aluminium plates

    ER1070 is recommended for materials like 1060 aluminium. It offers excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, which is ideal for welding pure aluminium.

  • 5000 series aluminium alloys

    ER4043 is suitable for 5xxx series such as 5052 and 5083, known for its good weldability and flow characteristics.
    ER5183 is a better match for high-strength grades like 6061-T6, providing stronger welds.

  • 6000 series aluminium alloys

    ER4043 is a versatile option for 6xxx series, including 6061 and 6082.
    ER5087 is used for materials like 6005A, 6082, and 5083, offering excellent resistance to cracking and porosity, along with strong mechanical properties.

  • Aluminium-magnesium alloys

    ER5356 is often used for alloys such as 5052 and 5083, thanks to its corrosion resistance and solid mechanical performance.

When selecting welding wires, consider the alloy grade, material thickness, hardness, and the specific working environment. For harder alloys, ER5183 is a solid choice. For corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, ER5356 or ER5556 may be more suitable. Always match the welding wire to your actual welding needs to ensure strong, stable, and high-quality results.

What are the common types of aluminium welding wires?

When selecting aluminium welding wire, it's important to consider the base material composition, mechanical requirements, and working environment. Below is an overview of commonly used aluminium welding wires and their applications:

  • ER1100
    1. Composition: Pure aluminium (99.0% Al)
    2. Features: Excellent corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity; low strength
    3. Applications: Welding of pure aluminium or low-alloy aluminium
  • ER4043
    1. Composition: Aluminium-silicon alloy (5% Si)
    2. Features: Good crack resistance and flow; lower mechanical strength
    3. Applications: Suitable for 6xxx series aluminium alloys (such as 6061) and cast aluminium
  • ER4047
    1. Composition: Aluminium-silicon alloy (12% Si)
    2. Features: Excellent flow characteristics and good crack resistance
    3. Applications: Used for cast aluminium and high-silicon content alloys
  • ER5356
    1. Composition: Aluminium-magnesium alloy (5% Mg)
    2. Features: High strength, good corrosion resistance, and solid crack resistance
    3. Applications: Commonly used for welding 5xxx series (like 5052, 5083) and 6xxx series aluminium alloys
  • ER5183
    1. Composition: Aluminium-magnesium alloy (approx. 4.5% Mg)
    2. Features: High strength with excellent corrosion resistance
    3. Applications: Primarily used for 5xxx series aluminium, especially 5083
  • ER5556
    1. Composition: Aluminium-magnesium alloy (5% Mg)
    2. Features: High strength and strong crack resistance
    3. Applications: Designed for 5xxx aluminium alloys where higher strength is needed

Among these, ER4043 and ER5356 are the most widely used options across a variety of industries.

How to select the right welding wire for aluminium alloys?

Choosing the right aluminium welding wire involves multiple factors, such as the base metal composition, plate thickness, service environment, mechanical requirements, and any special conditions. Below are some detailed recommendations:

Base metal composition
  • Pure aluminium:

    ER1070 and ER1100 wires are commonly used for welding pure aluminium and alloys that require good corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity.

  • Aluminium-silicon alloys:

    ER4043 and ER4047 wires are ideal for welding aluminium-silicon alloys and grades with lower weldability. ER4043 is widely used for general welding; ER4047 offers better flow and higher silicon content.

  • Aluminium-magnesium alloys:

    ER5356 is suitable for welding aluminium-magnesium alloys and applications requiring higher strength and durability.

  • Aluminium-copper alloys:

    ER2319 is recommended for aluminium-copper alloys and high-strength aluminium grades.

Plate thickness
  • For base metal thickness under 8 mm, a 1.2 mm diameter wire is typically used.
  • For 8 mm and above, a 1.6 mm wire is preferred for better control and weld quality.
Service environment
  • For demanding environments, such as chemical processing applications, wires with good corrosion resistance like ER5356 are recommended.
  • For heat-treatable aluminium alloys that are prone to hot cracking, silicon-based wires such as ER4043 can help minimize cracking during welding.
Mechanical performance requirements
  • When welding alloys like 6005A, 6082, or 5083, where high strength and crack resistance are required, ER5087 (AlMg4.5MnZr) is a good option.
  • This wire also performs well in preventing porosity and maintaining strong mechanical properties.
Special considerations
  • Some special aluminium alloys may require customized wires with added elements like titanium, vanadium, or zirconium to improve weldability.
  • For parts that will be anodized, avoid silicon-containing wires to prevent black discoloration in the weld zone.
  • In laser welding applications, the welding wire must match the laser system requirements, including diameter, deposition rate, and penetration depth.

What are the common wire sizes and packaging options?

  • Straight wire diameter: 1.6/2.0/2.4/3.0/3.2/4.0/5.0/6.0mm (carton box, 1000mm length)
  • Coiled wire diameter: 0.8/0.9/1.0/1.2/1.6/2.0mm (carton box, spool D270 7kg/spool, spool D300 9kg/spool)
  • Drum packaged wire diameter: 0.8/0.9/1.0/1.2/1.6/2.0mm (cardboard drum, 660mm diameter, 50kg/drum, 80kg/drum, 100kg/drum)

What is the minimum order quantity and delivery time for welding wire?

For standard models
  • Straight wire: Minimum order is one box (10 kg)
  • Coiled wire: Minimum order is one spool (9 kg)
  • Drum packaged wire: Minimum order is 100 kg
For custom specifications
  • Minimum order quantity: 500 kg
  • Delivery time: 3 to 15 working days, depending on production schedule

If you have special requirements or urgent orders, delivery time and quantity can be discussed and adjusted accordingly.

Can you provide samples for testing?

Yes, samples are available for testing. We can supply sample wire that matches your process requirements to help you evaluate performance before placing an order.

What Is Your Monthly Production Capacity and Inventory Status?

Our facility covers 8,000 m² and includes six dedicated workshops equipped with over 60 machines and more than 50 production lines. These include:

  • 6 wire drawing lines
  • 11 polishing lines
  • 21 cleaning lines
  • 4 straight cutting lines
  • 6 spool packaging lines
  • 3 drum packaging lines

We keep a regular stock of 280 tons and have an annual production capacity of 3,000 tons. To ensure quality and technical reliability, we follow standards such as GB/T 10858-2023 and AWS A5.16, and operate under GJB9001C-2017 and ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems. We also have a CNAS-certified lab that provides regular welding process evaluations and technical guidance. Our lab is equipped with spectrometers and mechanical testing machines to check chemical composition, tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, and more.

Can you customize packaging based on customer requirements?

Yes, we offer custom packaging based on your specific needs. You can choose the material, size, packaging type, and even printed designs to match your brand or application requirements.

Do you mainly offer solid or flux-cored welding wire?

Our main product line focuses on solid welding wire. We specialize in aluminium and titanium solid wires for various industrial applications.

Which aluminium welding wire grades are most commonly used under AWS standards?

The most commonly used aluminium welding wires under AWS standards depend on the base material and application. Among them, ER5356 is considered the most versatile option due to its broad compatibility, reliable strength, and corrosion resistance. Other frequently selected grades include ER1070 and ER1100 for pure aluminium, ER4043 for aluminium-silicon alloys with better flow and crack resistance, and ER5183 for high-strength alloys such as 5083. These grades are widely recognized for their consistent performance across different industries.

What preparations and precautions are needed before welding with aluminium wire?

  • Surface cleaning

    Before welding, clean the aluminium surface thoroughly to remove oil, dust, and other contaminants. Use acetone to wipe down the weld area. For thicker plates, use a stainless-steel wire brush first, then follow with acetone cleaning to ensure the surface is clean and oxide-free.

  • Wire selection

    The welding wire should match the base metal as closely as possible. Choose aluminium-silicon or aluminium-magnesium wire based on the weld requirements. Aluminium-magnesium wire should only be used for Al-Mg alloys, while aluminium-silicon wire works for both Al-Si and Al-Mg materials.

  • Preheating for thick plates

    When welding thick aluminium plates, preheating may be necessary to ensure full penetration. At the end of the weld, reduce the current gradually and fill the crater properly to avoid cracking.

  • Use of double pulse

    Double-pulse welding is recommended for aluminium as it provides better control and cleaner weld appearance.

  • TIG welding setup

    Use an AC/DC TIG welding machine. During AC mode, the current alternates polarity, positive polarity helps clean the oxide layer, while negative polarity performs the actual welding.

  • Welding parameters

    Always set your welding parameters based on the thickness of the material and the joint design to ensure proper fusion and strength.

  • MIG wire feeding

    Use special drive rollers designed for aluminium wire. These prevent slippage and ensure smooth feeding.

  • Torch cable length

    Keep the torch cable as short as possible. Aluminium wire is soft and can deform easily, long cables may cause unstable wire feeding.

What are the application industries for different aluminium welding wire grades?

  • 1xxx series

    Commonly used in chemical processing equipment, food industry components, and aluminium foil for electrolytic capacitors. Known for high purity and excellent corrosion resistance.

  • 2xxx series

    Typically used in aerospace applications. These alloys offer high strength and are often referred to as aerospace-grade aluminium.

  • 3xxx series

    Often applied in humid environments such as air conditioning systems, refrigerator panels, and vehicle underbodies. Offers good corrosion resistance and formability.

  • 4xxx series

    Used for architectural finishes and forged components like pistons. These alloys are suitable for building facades due to their wear resistance and aesthetic appeal.

  • 5xxx series

    Widely used in marine engineering (ships, vessels), automotive and aerospace welding parts, metro and light rail systems, pressure vessels with high fire resistance (such as tankers and refrigerated containers), refrigeration systems, communication towers, drilling equipment, transportation vehicles, missile components, and armour plating.

  • 6xxx series

    Commonly used for structural applications in the construction industry, such as window frames, tubing, and other architectural profiles.

  • 7xxx series

    Primarily used in the aerospace and aviation industries due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and durability.

What are the advantages of automatic aluminium welding?

Automatic aluminium welding offers several advantages that significantly improve both production quality and efficiency. By following pre-set parameters such as current, voltage, speed, angle, and welding path, automation ensures precise control over the weld seam's shape, depth, strength, and appearance. This helps eliminate common errors found in manual welding, reducing defects and inconsistencies.
Automation also allows for continuous, high-speed welding with stable output, greatly shortening production cycles and increasing overall efficiency. Real-time data collection and analysis help support preventive maintenance, keeping equipment in optimal condition and reducing downtime. In addition, automated systems reduce the need for manual labor, lower material and energy consumption, and help bring down production costs.

What are the applications and common sizes for TIG and MIG welding?

TIG Welding (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding – GTAW)

TIG welding involves manually feeding the filler wire with one hand while holding the torch with the other. It’s ideal for small-scale operations, detailed work, and repair tasks that require precision and control. This method is especially useful for welding thinner materials or components that demand a clean, high-quality finish.

Common welding wire sizes: 1.6 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.4 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.2 mm, 4.0 mm, 5.0 mm, 6.0 mm

MIG Welding (Gas Metal Arc Welding – GMAW)

MIG welding uses a continuous wire feed mechanism that delivers the filler wire through the torch. The wire acts as both the electrode and the filler material. An external shielding gas protects the arc, the molten weld pool, and the surrounding heat-affected area. MIG is well suited for high-efficiency production environments, especially for medium to thick sections of aluminium.

Common welding wire sizes: 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.6 mm, 2.0 mm

What are the main features of TIG and MIG welding?

TIG welding

TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) is suitable for welding nearly all industrial metals and alloys. It delivers clean, high-quality welds with excellent reliability and appearance. Since no flux or slag is used, there's no need for post-weld cleaning, and the process produces very little spatter or fume. TIG is ideal for both thin and thick materials, especially in applications where precision and visual finish are important.

MIG welding

MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding) uses a consumable wire electrode that continuously feeds through the welding torch. The arc forms between the wire and the base metal, melting both to create the weld. Shielding gas, usually argon, is supplied through the torch to protect the molten weld pool and surrounding metal from atmospheric contamination. As the wire melts, droplets transfer into the weld pool and fuse with the base metal, forming a solid weld bead. MIG welding is widely used in semi-automatic setups where the operator controls the torch, as well as in fully automated or robotic welding systems, especially in high-production environments.

How to ensure stable and smooth wire feeding during welding?

  • Regularly inspect and replace contact tips

    Worn or enlarged contact tip holes, or spatter buildup, can cause feeding issues. Check the tips regularly and replace them when necessary.

  • Check the nozzle insulator

    Make sure the insulator is properly installed to prevent spatter from sticking inside the nozzle, which can lead to short circuits and disrupt feeding stability.

  • Adjust the wire straightener

    Set the wire straightener according to the wire diameter to maintain a straight wire path during feeding.

  • Clean or replace the wire liner

    Remove aluminium dust or debris from the liner on a regular basis. If the liner is worn or bent, replace it to avoid feeding resistance.

  • Inspect drive rolls and guide tips

    Ensure the groove size of the drive rolls and guide tips match the wire diameter. U-groove rolls are recommended for aluminium wires. Clean or replace parts if there’s wear or foreign material buildup.

  • Set the correct drive roll pressure

    Adjust the tension based on the wire size. Too much pressure can deform the wire; too little can cause slipping.

  • Use the proper guide tube

    Choose the guide tube diameter based on welding speed. A slightly larger tube works for low-speed welding, while high-speed welding requires a precise match with the wire size.

  • Check the torch cable

    Avoid sharp bends or tight loops in the cable during operation, as they can restrict wire feeding and reduce stability.

What are the storage and handling guidelines for aluminium welding wire?

Storage Tips:
  • Store the welding wire in a dry and well-ventilated area. The recommended storage conditions are 10–40°C with a maximum relative humidity of 60%. Avoid humidity and keep the wire away from water, acids, alkalis, or any corrosive or volatile substances. These must not be stored together with the welding wire.
  • Place the welding wire on wooden pallets or metal/wooden racks. Do not store it directly on the floor or against walls. Maintain at least 300 mm of distance from any wall to prevent moisture exposure.
  • Handle the welding wire carefully to avoid damaging the protective packaging. This includes anti-oxidation layers like aluminium laminate, which help preserve wire quality during storage.
  • Follow the first-in, first-out rule when issuing wire for use. This minimizes storage time and helps maintain consistent quality.
  • Sort and store wires based on their type and size to prevent confusion or incorrect usage during production.
Usage Tips:
  • Before welding, clean the surface of the aluminium thoroughly. Remove any oil, dust, or contaminants using acetone. For thick plates, use a stainless-steel wire brush first, then wipe with acetone.
  • 2.Select a wire that closely matches the base metal. The specific grade should be chosen based on the weld joint’s strength and corrosion requirements.
  • When welding in humid environments, preheat the wire at 50–100°C for 1–2 hours to remove moisture. For thick base metals, preheating the material helps improve penetration. At the end of the weld, use low current to fill the crater and prevent cracking.
  • For TIG welding, a dual-pulse AC TIG machine is recommended. The alternating current allows cleaning of the oxide layer during the positive cycle and welding during the negative cycle.
  • Use high-purity argon as shielding gas to protect the weld pool from oxidation.
  • Adjust the current, voltage, and travel speed based on the wire size and material thickness to ensure proper fusion and weld quality.
  • Clean the weld seam after welding to remove oxidation and spatter. Post-weld heat treatment may be necessary to relieve stress in critical applications.
  • For MIG welding, always use drive rollers designed specifically for aluminium wire.
  • Avoid excessive cable length for the torch. Aluminium wire is soft, and longer cables can cause feeding instability.
  • Handle the wire with care. Avoid dropping or denting the spools to prevent damage that could affect wire quality.
  • Once the packaging is opened, use the wire within 24–48 hours. Keep the wire covered with a dust shield when not in use.
  • If using wire past its recommended shelf life, clean the wire surface before welding and perform test welds to confirm performance.
  • Welding arcs can cause serious eye damage. Always use proper eye and face protection during operation.

What are the advantages of drum packaged wire compared to coiled wire?

  • Drum packaged wire typically holds 80–100 kg per drum, which is equivalent to about 11 individual spools. This significantly reduces the frequency of wire changes, allowing uninterrupted welding and boosting production efficiency.
  • Drum wire feeds in a continuous and uniform manner, minimizing the risk of twisting or deformation during the welding process. This ensures a more stable arc and consistent weld quality, reducing the chances of wire misalignment or feed issues.
  • Fewer interruptions for wire replacement mean reduced labor involvement and shorter downtime, making the entire welding process faster and more cost-effective.
  • Drum packaged wire is especially suitable for robotic welding systems, automatic welding lines, and long-duration welding tasks, common in industries such as automotive manufacturing, new energy vehicles, and heavy equipment production.

What precautions should be taken for the transport, setup, and use of drum packaged wire?

  • Always keep the drum upright during transportation. Tilting or laying it on its side can damage the wire arrangement inside.
  • Do not open the drum or remove the lid before it has reached its designated workstation.
  • When feeding the wire into the guide tube, use both hands to hold and guide the wire carefully. Avoid using one hand, as dropping the wire into the drum may cause tangling.
  • If the drum needs to be moved after opening, make sure to first secure the pressing plate and lid before relocating it.
  • Before starting the wire feed, remove the foam-loaded pressing plate, spring, and support bar from the top of the drum.
  • During operation, ensure the transparent pressing plate stays on top of the wire to maintain consistent pressure and prevent feeding issues.
About Titanium Welding Wire

What are the common grades and sizes of titanium welding wire?

  • Common grades:

    ERTi-1, ERTi-2, ERTi-3, ERTi-4, ERTi-5, ERTi-7, ERTi-9, ERTi-11, and ERTi-12, each designed for different strength, corrosion resistance, and application needs.

  • Available sizes:
    1. Coiled wire diameter (with spool): 0.8/1.0/1.2/1.6mm
    2. Straight wire diameter: 1.2/1.6/2.0/2.4/3.0/4.0/5.0/6.0mm
    3. Coiled wire diameter (without spool): 1.2/1.6/2.0/2.4/3.0/4.0/5.0mm

What are the main applications of titanium welding wire?

Titanium welding wire is widely used in industries where performance, reliability, and corrosion resistance are important, for example:

  • Aerospace

    Used for structural components in aircraft and spacecraft, titanium alloys offer excellent strength-to-weight ratio and can handle extreme temperatures, making them ideal for demanding flight environments.

  • Automotive

    In high-performance vehicle manufacturing, titanium wire is used for engine parts, suspension systems, and exhaust components, where lightweight and durability are critical for fuel efficiency and mechanical stability.

  • Chemical industry

    Thanks to its strong resistance to acids, chlorides, and other corrosive agents, titanium is widely used in chemical processing equipment, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels.

  • Metal 3D printing

    Titanium wire is becoming increasingly common in metal additive manufacturing. It allows precise control over material deposition and is used to produce custom parts for aerospace, medical implants, and industrial tooling.

What are the recommended storage conditions for titanium welding wire?

To maintain performance and prevent contamination, titanium welding wire must be stored in a clean, controlled environment.

The storage area should be dry, well-ventilated, and free from corrosive gases. Avoid direct sunlight, rain exposure, or any extreme conditions. The ideal temperature range is 18°C to 24°C, with relative humidity kept between 40% and 60%. The space should also be clean and organized, free from dust, waste, pests, or microorganisms that could affect the welding wire’s surface or packaging.

In terms of storage duration, there are two main scenarios:

  • Short-term storage (up to 3 months)

    Titanium wire can be kept in sealed boxes or bags made of non-corrosive materials. Regular room temperature is generally acceptable, as long as humidity is controlled.

  • Long-term storage (over 3 months)

    A low-temperature, controlled environment is recommended. Extra precautions should be taken to keep the wire dry and shielded from air exposure to maintain its chemical stability and mechanical integrity.

What are the packaging options for titanium welding wire?

  • MIG welding wire

    Available in Ø0.8 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.2 mm, and 1.6 mm diameters. The wire is neatly arranged using fine wire spooling, vacuum-sealed in aluminium foil bags, and packed in protective cardboard boxes.
    Spool sizes: D300 mm (10 kg per spool) or D100 mm (0.8 kg per spool)

  • TIG welding wire

    Offered in Ø1.2 mm to 6.0 mm diameters. These welding wires are cut to 1-meter lengths and packaged in durable plastic tubes for easy handling and storage.
    Weight per tube: 5 kg

  • TIG coiled wire (No Spool)

    Available in Ø1.2 mm to 5.0 mm, this type of welding wire comes in coils without spools. Each coil is tightly sealed with dual-layer plastic film.
    Coil inner diameters: D450 mm or D300 mm
    Packaging weight: 10 kg per coil

What welding methods are recommended for titanium wire?

  • TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding)

    TIG is the most commonly used method for welding titanium. It uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and argon shielding gas to create a stable arc that melts the joint between titanium parts. TIG welding delivers clean, high-quality welds with a smooth appearance, making it ideal for precision work.

  • MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding)

    Unlike TIG, MIG welding uses a consumable wire electrode that continuously feeds into the weld pool. Argon gas is still used for shielding. This method is more efficient for thicker titanium plates and allows faster deposition rates, making it suitable for higher-volume production.

  • Laser welding

    This high-energy beam welding process provides deep penetration with minimal distortion. It's especially effective for thin-walled titanium components where high precision and minimal heat input are required. Laser welding offers fast processing, clean weld seams, and excellent structural integrity.

Not Sure Which Welding Wire Suits Your Project?

We’re here to help you navigate our range of welding wires and rods and find the best fit for your application. Reach out anytime: sales@cwhj.com

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Zhengzhou Chuanwang Welding Material Co. Ltd.
sales@cwhj.com
+86-371-60202203
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Products
  • Aluminium Welding Wire
  • Titanium Welding Wire
  • Aluminium Wire Rod
Applications
Industries
  • Automotive
  • Pressure Vessel
  • Railcar
  • Shipbuilding
  • Aerospace
  • Petrochemical
  • Aluminium Plant
  • Defence
Welding Processes
  • MIG Welding
  • TIG Welding