Short answer: Joining metals well means matching process to alloy: GTAW or GMAW with 4xxx/5xxx wire for aluminium, TIG or MIG with 309/316Ls for stainless, and stick or MIG for steel, with filler, shielding gas and post-clean chosen against the base metal and service.
At a Glance
Aluminium Needs Care
Aluminium welds with GTAW or GMAW using 4043 or 5356 wire and strict cleaning, because oxide and porosity bite fast; the comparison is in our Welding Aluminium vs Steel and the base alloy in our Aluminium Supplier range.
Stainless Without Carbide
Stainless welds with TIG or MIG using low-carbon filler and back-purging to avoid sensitisation; the how-to is in our How to Weld Stainless e Welding Guide, and the grade choice in our 304 vs 316.
Steel the Workhorse
Carbon steel welds with stick or MIG using E7018 or ER70S filler; the basics are in our How to Weld Carbon Steel and the cross-metal question in our Weld Stainless to Mild Steel.
Dissimilar and Reactive Metals
Joining titanium or stainless to steel needs a buffer layer and inert gas; our Titanium vs Stainless e Titanium Grades Guide explain the risks and the post-clean in our Surface Treatment Guide.
Sourcing Weld-Ready Stock
Buyers specify alloy, temper and certificate so the shop can weld first time; our How to Choose a Metal Supplier e Mill Test Certificate Guide frame the RFQ.
Get a Quote
Tell HXSCO your requirements and we will respond with a competitive quote and lead time.
Domande frequenti
GTAW (TIG) or GMAW (MIG) with 4043 or 5356 wire.
Low-carbon filler, back-purge and controlled heat input.
Yes with the right filler and procedure; see our guide.
To stop embrittling oxidation in the weld zone.
We supply aluminium, stainless and steel with mill certificate.
Source Weld-Ready Metal from HXSCO
HXSCO supplies aluminium, stainless and steel in weld-ready grades with mill certificate. Send your alloy and quantities for a quote.