What rod should you use for gas welding 5052 aluminum?

Hi, guys.

I just realized that the aluminum sheet I've been working with is 5052. I thought that it was 3003, and was planning on using 1100 welding rod with my oxy-acetylene torch.

What rod should I use with gas in order to have no apparent welds once I smooth and polish the surface? Will the color be the same when you weld 5052 with 1100 rod? I know it would be with 3003...

Thanks,

--Matt

 

I think the sheet I have is also 5052. Just went out and looked and I have 5356 rods. I researched this about a year ago, but dont really remember what I came up with. I dont think I can say I have sucsessfully welded with gas yet either Need mucho practice!

What kind of flux are you using?
What size tip?
How thick is the aluminum?

 

you could always just trim off thin strips of the sheet and use them..that way you will have the exact right thing

just a thought
zach

 

Grrr...

I'm with you, Walt. I researched this a while ago, too. Unfortunately I've forgotten what I found.

I think that Zach has a great idea, but I can't see how I can clip off a consistently thick (or thin) piece to use as welding rod.

Any other opinions? Will 5052, when welded and smoothed with 1100 rod, look odd?

 

Could you just do a test weld?

Maybe send and email to the Tinman? http://www.tinmantech.com/index.html .

 

From one of my TIG books, but probably relevant anyway:

For 5052 aluminum:

Max strength: ER 5556
Max ductility: ER 5654
For best color match after anodizing ER 5356
Max salt water corosion resistance: ER 5554
Least cracking tendancy ER 5356

I use 5356 for most 5052 work, but I don't remember ever having to grind one smooth and polish it up. I'd give 5356 a shot - let me know how it works out.

 

Wow, Trinary. Thanks a lot That's exactly what I was looking for.