Rich Grise wrote:

(...)

I'd recommend against aluminum, because that oxide layer will interfere with
the electrical continuity. I got really lucky - My office opens onto a fab
shop and there's some weld filler that's awesome - iron coated with pure
copper. You could even use coat hangers.

For that matter, you could use ordinary #14 household wiring wire - stretch
it a little bit to straighten it out.

I suppose the best practical elements would be
stainless filler wire, yes?

--Winston