Qualified to AWS A5.10 ER4043, ABS, ISO Designation AISi5. 4043 is an all position 5% silicon alloy used to weld heat treatable base alloys. It is most often used to weld the 6XXX series of alloys. The silicon addition improves puddle fluidity, producing an appealing bead profile. It is less crack sensitive on the 6XXX series than other welding alloys. Common applications are automotive parts, truck trailers, bicycles.
GTAW (TIG) - For manual AC welding, argon is generally preferred because the arc has good stability. On heavier sections, the addition of helium may be considered, and arc penetration will increase significantly; however, gas flow rates must be increased when helium is added.
| Material Thickness | Tungsten, Pure or Zirconiated | Wire Size | Welding Current (Amps) | Arc Voltage | Gas Cup | Argon, cfh |
| 1/2" | 1/4" | 1/4" | 400 - 450 | 25 | 5/8" | 35 |
| 3/8" | 1/4" | 3/16" - 1/4" | 330 - 380 | 15 | 5/8" | 35 |
| 1/4" | 3/16" - 1/4" | 3/16" | 220 - 275 | 15 | 1/2" | 30 |
| 3/16" | 5/32" - 3/16" | 5/32" - 3/16" | 170 - 225 | 15 | 7/16" - 1/2" | 25 |
| 1/8" | 1/8" - 5/32" | 1/8" - 5/32" | 125 - 175 | 15 | 7/16" | 20 |
| 1/16" | 1/16" - 3/32" | 1/16" - 3/32" | 70 - 100 | 15 | 3/8" | 20 |
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