The following is the American Welding Society (AWS) numbering system: ARC welding electrodes (welding rods) are identified using the A.W.S. (American Welding Society) numbering system and are made in fractional sizes from 1/16" to 5/16".

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What are the major types of welding electrodes (welding rods)?

E-6011 Welding Rods

Produces a deep penetrating weld and works well on non-prepared, dirty, rusted, scaled, oily or painted surfaces.

A mild steel type that can be used with AC or DC currents in all positions.

60,000 P.S.I. tensile strength

E-6013 Welding Rods

Produces a medium penetrating weld with a superior weld bead appearance.

A mild steel type that can be used with AC or DC currents in all positions.

Best used with clean or prepared surfaces.

Designed for general-purpose use, excellent for low heat application.

60,000 P.S.I. tensile strength

E-7018 Welding Rods

This electrode is known as a low hydrogen type and can be used AC or DC currents in all positions.

The coating on this electrode has a low moisture content that reduces the introduction of hydrogen into the weld. (Note: This electrode must be kept dry. If it gets wet, it must be dried in a rod oven before use)

Can produce welds of X-Ray quality with medium penetration.

Best used with clean or prepared surfaces.

70,000 P.S.I. tensile strength

How does the American Welding Society (AWS) numbering system work for welding rods?

In the American Welding Society part numbering system for welding rods: the first two digits always represent tensile strength. E60xx = 60,000 lbs tensile strength, E70xx = 70,000 lbs tensile strength. In the third digit position, Exx1x, the 1 means all position. (flat, vertical, horizontal, overhead). The forth digit designates current: E6011 is AC or DC (+) only, E6013 is AC or DC(+ or -), E7018 is AC or DC (+) only (This electrode runs best on DC+), DC+ is electrode positive, DC- is electrode negative.

What are some of the Specialty Electrodes (welding rods)?

Cutting Electrode

Use this electrode or welding rod for fast cutting of cast iron and stainless steel. These rods are for use with AC current.

EniFeCl Nickel 55 cast iron Electrode (machinable)

This is your best welding rod selection for cast iron. It produces strong, sound welds at low amps. With its good nickel content this rod has a natural attraction to cast iron, and can repair cylinder blocks; exhaust manifolds machine stands and bases. For use with both AC and DC currents, with best results from DC+ Tensile strength 70,000 psi.

Hardfacing Electrode

This welding rod produces an outstanding impact and abrasive resistant surface. The high deposition rate prolongs surface life of both new and worn parts. This product is chrome carbide, and is used in auger screws, bucket teeth, crushing equipment, mill hammers etc. This electrode is rated severe abrasion with moderate to severe impact. It is used for metal to earth abrasion and not to be used for metal-to-metal applications. It is approximately 53-57 HRC hardness on carbon steel, and can be applied to carbon, low alloy and manganese steels and will cross check, the maximum is two layers.

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