Welding Rod Numbers Explained: How to Choose the Right Electrode for Stronger Welds
At The Welding Shop, we understand that selecting the right welding rod is crucial for achieving strong, reliable welds. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, deciphering the numbers on welding rods can significantly impact your welding outcomes. This guide will delve into the meaning behind these numbers, explore commonly used welding rods, and address frequently asked questions to enhance your welding proficiency.
Decoding Welding Rod Numbers
Welding rods, also known as welding electrodes, are labeled with a series of numbers and letters, such as E6010 or E7018. These designations follow the American Welding Society (AWS) classification system and provide vital information about the electrode’s properties and suitable applications.
1. Prefix “E” – Electrode
The letter “E” denotes that the rod is an electrode used in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), commonly referred to as stick welding.
2. First Two (or Three) Digits – Tensile Strength
The initial digits indicate the minimum tensile strength of the weld metal, measured in thousands of pounds per square inch (PSI).
- E6010: 60,000 PSI
- E7018: 70,000 PSI
A higher tensile strength suggests a stronger weld, making such electrodes ideal for demanding applications like structural welding.
3. Next-to-Last Digit – Welding Position
This digit specifies the positions in which the electrode can be utilized:
- 1: All positions (Flat, Vertical, Overhead, Horizontal)
- 2: Flat and Horizontal positions only
For instance, E7018 electrodes are versatile for all positions, whereas E7024 is suited for flat and horizontal welding.
4. Last Digit – Coating Type & Current Compatibility
The final digit reveals the type of flux coating and the compatible welding current (AC, DC, or both). This influences arc characteristics, penetration depth, and slag removal.
Commonly Used Welding Rods and Their Applications
Understanding the specific applications of various welding rods can aid in selecting the appropriate electrode for your project.
1. E6010 – Deep Penetration for Pipe Welding
- Tensile Strength: 60,000 PSI
- Welding Position: All positions
- Current Type: DC+
- Key Features:
- Delivers deep penetration, making it ideal for welding thick materials.
- Fast-freezing slag is advantageous for vertical and overhead welding.
- Commonly used in pipeline welding and repair work.
2. E6011 – Versatility with AC and DC Currents
- Tensile Strength: 60,000 PSI
- Welding Position: All positions
- Current Type: AC, DC+
- Key Features:
- Suitable for welding on rusty or dirty metals.
- Ideal for maintenance and repair work, including farm equipment and shipbuilding.
- Compatible with both AC and DC welders, making it accessible for various users.
3. E6013 – Smooth Arc for Light Fabrication
- Tensile Strength: 60,000 PSI
- Welding Position: All positions
- Current Type: AC, DC+
- Key Features:
- User-friendly, perfect for beginners and hobbyists.
- Provides light penetration, suitable for thin materials and sheet metal.
- Produces a smooth, aesthetically pleasing weld bead with minimal spatter.
4. E7014 – High Deposition for Increased Speed
- Tensile Strength: 70,000 PSI
- Welding Position: Flat and Horizontal
- Current Type: AC, DC+
- Key Features:
- Contains iron powder in the coating, leading to higher deposition rates.
- Ideal for fillet welds, general fabrication, and repair work.
- Enables faster welding speeds with minimal post-weld cleaning.
5. E7018 – Preferred for Structural Welding
- Tensile Strength: 70,000 PSI
- Welding Position: All positions
- Current Type: AC, DC+
- Key Features:
- Low-hydrogen coating minimizes the risk of cracking.
- Produces strong, ductile welds with excellent mechanical properties.
- Widely used in structural applications, including bridges, buildings, and pressure vessels.
6. E7024 – Fast-Fill for High Productivity
- Tensile Strength: 70,000 PSI
- Welding Position: Flat and Horizontal
- Current Type: AC, DC+
- Key Features:
- High iron powder content facilitates rapid welding.
- Best suited for large fillet welds and thick sections.
- Commonly employed in heavy fabrication and construction industries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Welding Rods
Q1: What factors should I consider when choosing a welding rod?
A: Consider the following:
- Base Metal Type: Ensure compatibility between the rod and the base metal (e.g., mild steel, stainless steel, cast iron).
- Welding Position: Select a rod suitable for the welding position required (all-position vs. flat/horizontal).
- Power Source: Verify that your welding machine’s current type (AC, DC, or both) matches the rod’s requirements.
- Material Thickness: Thicker materials may require rods with deeper penetration capabilities, such as E6010 or E7018.
- Desired Weld Properties: Depending on the application, choose a rod that offers the necessary tensile strength and ductility.
Q2: How should I store welding rods to maintain their quality?
A: Proper storage is essential to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to weld defects. Store rods in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. For low-hydrogen rods like E7018, using a rod oven to maintain optimal moisture levels is recommended.
Q3: Can I use the same welding rod for different metals?
A: Welding rods are typically designed for specific base metals. For example , E6013 and E7018 are designed for mild steel, while stainless steel electrodes like E308L are used for welding stainless steel. For cast iron, special electrodes like ENi-CI are required. Always check the electrode specifications to ensure compatibility with your base metal.
Q4: What is the difference between welding rods and welding electrodes?
A: The terms welding rod and welding electrode are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings:
- Welding rods can refer to both consumable and non-consumable filler materials used in welding. For example, in gas welding, the rod is just a filler metal.
- Welding electrodes, like those used in stick welding (SMAW), serve as both the electrical conductor and filler metal. These electrodes are coated with flux, which stabilizes the arc and provides shielding to prevent oxidation.
Q5: Why does my welding rod keep sticking to the metal?
A: Several factors can cause a welding rod to stick to the workpiece:
- Incorrect amperage setting: Too low of an amperage can cause sticking. Try increasing the amperage slightly.
- Poor rod angle or technique: Keep the rod at the correct angle (usually 10-15 degrees from vertical in stick welding).
- Damp or expired electrodes: If your rods have absorbed moisture, they can stick. Store them properly or use a rod oven for low-hydrogen rods like E7018.
- Dirty or rusted workpiece: Ensure the metal surface is clean before welding for a smooth arc start.
Q6: What welding rod is best for beginners?
A: The best welding rod for beginners is typically E6013 because:
- It provides an easy arc start and restart.
- It produces smooth, clean welds with minimal spatter.
- It can run on both AC and DC welders, making it versatile.
- It works well on thin to medium-thickness materials, which are common in DIY projects and repairs.
For structural welding or higher-strength applications, beginners should practice with E7018, which is a bit more challenging but highly useful in professional welding.
How to Improve Your Welding with the Right Rod Selection
To achieve the best results in welding, follow these expert tips from The Welding Shop:
✅ Match the rod to the material – Different rods work for different metals. E6010/E6011 for deep penetration, E6013 for light work, and E7018 for structural applications.
✅ Check the amperage range – Each rod type has a recommended amperage range. Adjust your welder settings accordingly for optimal performance.
✅ Store rods properly – Keep rods dry to prevent moisture contamination, especially low-hydrogen rods like E7018.
✅ Practice good technique – Maintain proper travel speed, electrode angle, and arc length for clean, strong welds.
✅ Use the right current type – Some rods, like E6010, require DC+, while others like E6011 work with both AC and DC welders.
✅ Test before welding – If uncertain, run a practice weld on scrap metal to see how the rod performs before working on critical welds.
Final Thoughts: Mastering Welding Rods with The Welding Shop
Understanding welding rod numbers and their specific uses can dramatically improve your welding quality and efficiency. Whether you’re working on mild steel, structural fabrication, pipeline welding, or general repairs, choosing the right welding electrode is essential for strong, clean welds.
At The Welding Shop, we stock a wide selection of high-quality welding rods and electrodes for all applications. If you’re unsure which rod to use, our expert team is here to help!
🔥 Visit us today at The Welding Shop for premium welding supplies, expert advice, and the best selection of welding rods in South Africa! 🔥