What Electrode Should i Choose?
Best Rods for Beginners
As a new welder, you want rods that are easy to strike (start), easy to control, Here are the top choices:
E6013 – Great for Beginners
- Strength: 60,000 psi
- Positions: All positions (1)
- Current: AC or DC (works with most basic machines)
- Why it’s good: Easy to use, produces a smooth arc, and has a soft, quiet sound. It gives a clean weld with light slag that’s easy to remove. Perfect for thin to medium-thickness mild steel.
- Best for: General repairs, car projects, home fabrication, and thin metal (1/8 inch or less).
- Tip: Use a slightly higher amperage than the chart suggests for smoother starts.
E6011 – Good for Dirty or Rusty Metal
- Strength: 60,000 psi
- Positions: All positions (1)
- Current: AC or DC (penetrates well on AC)
- Why it’s good: Can weld through light rust, paint, or dirt. Great for outdoor or field repairs where cleaning isn’t perfect.
- Best for: Farm equipment, old car parts, fencing, or any situation where the metal isn’t perfectly clean.
- Note: Has a more aggressive arc than E6013. Takes a little practice.
E7018 – Strong, Professional-Quality Welds
- Strength: 70,000 psi
- Positions: All positions (1)
- Current: Usually DC (some can use AC, check the package)
- Why it’s good: Produces very strong, high-quality welds with low hydrogen. The weld is smooth, and the slag comes off easily.
- Best for: Thick steel, structural work, or when you need a strong, clean weld.
- Warning: Must be kept dry! Store in a rod oven or sealed container. Not the easiest for beginners, but excellent once you get the hang of it.
E6010 – Deep Penetration for Tough Jobs
- Strength: 60,000 psi
- Positions: All positions (1)
- Current: DC only (not for AC machines)
- Why it’s good: Very deep penetration. Great for tight joints or dirty metal.
- Best for: Pipe welding, deep grooves, or thick steel.
- Note: Loud and spattery. Not ideal for beginners unless your machine runs on DC.
3. How to Choose Based on Material Thickness
- Thin Metal (1/16" to 1/8"): Use E6013. It has less penetration and is less likely to burn through.
- Medium Metal (1/8" to 1/4"): Use E6013, E6011, or E7018.
- Thick Metal (1/4" and above): Use E7018 or E6010 (if you have DC). You may need multiple passes.
4. How to Choose Based on Material Type
- Mild Steel (most common): All the rods above (E6013, E6011, E7018, E6010) work well.
- Galvanized Steel: Not recommended for beginners. Requires special ventilation and safety gear.
- Stainless Steel or Aluminum: You need special rods (like E308 or E4043), but stick welding is not common for these. Stick welding is mostly for carbon steel.
Tips:
- Match the rod to your machine: If your welder only runs on AC, avoid E6010 (needs DC).
- Check the amperage chart: Every rod package has a recommended amperage based on rod diameter. Start in the middle and adjust.
- Keep rods dry: Moisture ruins rods, especially E7018. Buy small quantities and store them in a dry place.
- Clean the metal: Remove paint, rust, and oil for the best results, even with E6011.
- Practice first: Try different rods on scrap metal before working on your real project.
Summary:
If you're just starting out, begin with:
- 1/8-inch E6013 rods – for easy, clean welding on thin to medium steel.
- Maybe add 1/8-inch E6011 – for tougher, dirtier jobs.
Once you’re comfortable, try E7018 for stronger, professional-looking welds.
By choosing the right rod, you’ll make stronger, cleaner welds and enjoy the process more. Happy welding!