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The Most Popular Types of Welding Rods

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  They are: E6010 .   Among the most popular electrodes, these require DC and a narrow arc. They are common in steel welding applications that require deep penetration, such as shipbuilding, steel storage tanks, and other large-scale applications. E6011 .   These are similar to E6010 but can be used with AC as well. They are one of the most common go-to electrodes for thick welding materials, with a bit more leeway and ease of use than E6010. Their primary drawback is that their weld beads tend to be flatter and leave waves, so they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other welds. E6012.   These welding rods support both AC and DC current and are ideal for welding with minimal spatter and slag. They create a stable arc and are great at shallow penetration. As such, they are best for repair, cosmetic, non-critical welds, and welds of certain materials like oxidized carbon steel. They also produce thick welds, which may need cleaning after. E6013 . ...

Stick welding basics: How to stick weld

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Stick Welding Basics and Fundamentals The core wire in an SMAW electrode can be a solid drawn rod, a cast material, or a fabricated core wire. The core wire conducts electric current to the arc to melt the base metal and provides the filler material for the welding joint. The core wire may or may not be alloyed. Typical core wire grades include carbon steel for mild steel and low-alloy electrodes and 304L, 308L, 309L, and 316L stainless core wire for stainless steel electrodes. Many specialty wires also are available, including aluminum and those for buildup and hardfacing. These electrodes have a core wire composition that complements the coating and electrode design for the classification and application. The three primary categories of electrodes—cellulose, rutile, and basic (low-hydrogen)—obtain their name from the coating type. Electrode coatings help optimize performance for various applications by influencing how quickly the slag freezes; penetration (deep, medium, or mild); and...

How a TIG Welder Works and When to TIG Weld

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  How does a TIG welder work? TIG stands for tungsten inert gas and is technically called gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). The process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode that delivers the current to the welding arc. An inert gas, typically argon, protects and cools the tungsten and weld puddle. TIG welding is similar to oxy-acetylene welding in that you use a filler material for build-up or reinforcement. In  race car fabrication , we use TIG welding for aluminum and 4130 chrome-moly steel. If you are going to weld either of these materials, you need a quality TIG welder. Miller offers products to accommodate anyone — from a home hobbyist to an advanced user. If you have ever welded with an oxy-acetylene torch, you can easily weld with a TIG machine. The TIG process uses an electric torch, and the welder hand feeds filler rod into the molten puddle. The ability to soft start and soft stop the heat makes the TIG process different from other types of electric welding. Some...