AWS Class ER4043 Filler Metal – Composition, Properties, and Uses
Welding is essential to many industries and requires different materials to achieve desired results. One of the materials used in welding is AWS (American Welding Society) Class ER4043. If you’re looking for a welding material that provides excellent performance and results, consider the AWS Class ER4043. This post discusses everything you need to know about AWS Class ER4043.
What is AWS Class ER4043?
AWS ER4043 is an aluminium-silicon alloy primarily used for welding heat-treatable base alloys of 5xxx and 6xxx series. It offers good corrosion resistance, ease of welding, great formability and strength characteristics. The silicon addition improves fluidity in the weld pool, which results in improved fusion characteristics. Due to its low melting point, it can be used with minimal distortion while still providing excellent electrical conductivity and mechanical properties after solidification. It is commonly used to join components that require much strength during fabrication or when dealing with elevated temperatures during service life.
ER4043 Filler Metal Composition
AWS Class ER4043 alloy is an aluminium-silicon alloy that contains 5% silicon. It is a non-heat treatable alloy that is widely used in welding applications. Due to its silicon content, it has excellent fluidity and provides a smooth, consistent weld. Additionally, it is a highly recommended material for welding aluminium alloys with a magnesium content of up to 3%.
Si |
Fe |
Cu |
Mn |
Mg |
Zn | Ti | OEE |
OET |
Al |
4.5- |
0.8 |
0.30 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.10 |
0.20 |
0.05 |
0.15 |
Bal |
ER4043 Filler Metal Mechanical Properties
AWS Class ER4043 welding alloy has excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, impact resistance, and shear strength. Its excellent mechanical properties make it an ideal material for welding and creating strong structures. The AWS Class ER4043 can produce a weld with perfect dimensional stability when used correctly.
As required by AWS 5.10 |
Tensile Strength MPa (ksi) |
Yield Strength MPa (ksi) |
Elongation % |
AWS |
Not Specified | ||
Typical Results – As welded |
190 (27) |
125 (18) |
8 |
ER4043 Filler Metal Physical Properties
AWS Class ER4043 electrode has remarkable physical properties, including high thermal conductivity, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and low melting point. These properties make it a highly versatile material used in various welding applications. Additionally, it has excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for working in different environments.
ER4043 Filler Metal Trade Names
Class | UNS | Oxford Alloys | BOHLER |
ER4043 | A94043 | Alloy 4043 | BOHLER UNION ALSI5 |
ER4043 Filler Metal Parameters
Diameter |
Process |
Volt | Amps |
Shielding Gas |
|
in | (mm) | ||||
.035 | 0.9 | GMAW | 22-28 | 100-175 |
Spray Transfer |
.045 | 1.2 | GMAW | 22-28 | 120-210 | |
1/16 | 1.6 | GMAW | 24-30 | 160-300 | |
.035 | 0.9 | GMAW | 17-19 | 50-150 | Short Circuiting Transfer 100% Argon |
.045 | 1.2 | GMAW | 16-20 | 60-175 | |
1/16 | 1.6 | GMAW | 16-20 | 60-175 | |
1/16 | 1.6 | GTAW |
|
60-100 | 100% Argon |
3/32 | 2.4 | GTAW |
|
125-160 | 100% Argon |
1/8 | 3.2 | GTAW |
|
180-240 | 100% Argon |
ER4043 Filler Metal Uses
AWS Class ER4043 welding electrode is used for welding aluminium alloys with a magnesium content of up to 3%. It is ideal for applications that emphasise the final product’s appearance, such as in automobile manufacturing, bicycle frames, boats, and airframes. Additionally, it is used to manufacture food packaging, cans, and other aluminium parts.
ER4043 Filler Metal Corrosion Resistance
AWS Class ER4043 wire has excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for welding in different environments. It is highly recommended for welding applications exposed to humid and marine environments. Its high corrosion resistance is due to its exceptional physical properties and the presence of silicon in its composition.
ER4043 Filler Metal Heat Treatment
AWS Class ER4043 filler wire is a non-heat-treatable alloy that does not require further heat treatment after welding. Thus, it is perfect for welding applications where heat treatment is unnecessary. After welding with the AWS Class ER4043, the metal can be left to air cool, and no further treatment is required.
Conclusion
You have now understood the benefits and properties of AWS Class ER4043, which is widely used in many industrial welding applications. Its physical and mechanical characteristics make it ideal for use in various industries. It also has excellent corrosion resistance and requires no additional heat treatment, making it a versatile and reliable welding material. So, next time you’re welding aluminium alloys, consider using AWS Class ER 4043.
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