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Welding 6061
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Slimneverdies
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    Wed Nov 18, 2015 12:42 am

Hello Tigsters,

My question is about trying to fill in blemishes on a set of aluminum wheels that I believe is 6061. Usually on these wheels people usually sand the wheel to get a really smooth surface. These wheels are heavily pitted and have a few curb chips. Can I fill the deep scratches in wheels and then sand and polish with a mirror finish? If so, what filler do I use and what technique should I use to build up a surface?

Thanks
Slim
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Rick_H
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As far as acceptable filler for 6061, with 5356 or 4043 will work just fine. HOWEVER, 4043 turns a dark color when anodized, but will be less prone to cracking under stress and heat. Each filler has it advantages and disadvantages based on use, joint style and application.

If you are just looking to fill, grind and polish away either should suit your needs, I would use 4043.
I weld stainless, stainless and more stainless...Food Industry, sanitary process piping, vessels, whatever is needed, I like to make stuff.
ASME IX, AWS 17.1, D1.1
Instagram #RNHFAB
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Slimneverdies
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    Wed Nov 18, 2015 12:42 am

Ok Rich. So 4043 is what I need to pick up. I need to be able to get it to a mirror finish like they were originally.

Thanks
Slim
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Bill Beauregard
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Are you sure they aren't anodized already? You need to grind, or burn off the anodizing, that'll be unsightly. I'd use 4943 it melts a little colder than the 4043, and wets in nicer. Less heat to the wheel.
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Rick_H
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Bill Beauregard wrote:Are you sure they aren't anodized already? You need to grind, or burn off the anodizing, that'll be unsightly. I'd use 4943 it melts a little colder than the 4043, and wets in nicer. Less heat to the wheel.
True, if you have to be rod 4943 will flow a little easier.
I weld stainless, stainless and more stainless...Food Industry, sanitary process piping, vessels, whatever is needed, I like to make stuff.
ASME IX, AWS 17.1, D1.1
Instagram #RNHFAB
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Slimneverdies
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    Wed Nov 18, 2015 12:42 am

Bill Beauregard wrote:Are you sure they aren't anodized already? You need to grind, or burn off the anodizing, that'll be unsightly. I'd use 4943 it melts a little colder than the 4043, and wets in nicer. Less heat to the wheel.
If they were anodized I doubt any would still be on the surface. I've sanded on these wheels with various grits for a few days so it should be down to its unanodized surface. Supposedly when I finish sanding and polishing these wheels are suppose to look like a mirror. I just want to fill in the deep gouges and chips so it's not so noticeable
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