| Electrode Type | Suitable Materials | Key Characteristics & Uses | Welding Position | Current Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E6010 | Low & Mild Carbon Steel | Deep penetration; ideal for root passes on pipes, dirty or rusty surfaces | All-Position | DC+ (DCEP) |
| E6011 | Low & Mild Carbon Steel | Similar to E6010 but works on AC; good for root passes and hot passes on unclean metal | All-Position | AC, DC+ (DCEP) |
| E6013 | Low Carbon Steel (General Purpose) | Medium penetration, smooth bead, minimal spatter; suitable for beginners and light fabrication | All-Position | AC, DC± |
| E7014 | Low Carbon Steel | High deposition rate, fast travel speed; good for flat and horizontal fillet welds | All-Position | AC, DC± |
| E7018 | Low-Alloy & Structural Steel | Low-hydrogen electrode, high strength (70 ksi), excellent crack resistance; for critical structures and X-ray quality welds | All-Position (except vertical-down) | AC, DC+ (DCEP) |
| E7024 | Low Carbon Steel (High Deposition) | Iron powder coating for very high deposition; primarily for high-speed flat and horizontal fillet welds | Flat, Horizontal Fillet | AC, DC± |
| ER308/308L | Stainless Steel (e.g., 304/304L) | For austenitic stainless steels; provides good corrosion resistance | All-Position | DC- (DCEN) or AC |
| ER4043 | Aluminum Alloys | General-purpose Al-Si filler metal; for castings and 6xxx series aluminum | All-Position | AC or DC- (DCEN) |
Usage Tips:
E6010/E6011 are often used for root passes in pipe welding and on contaminated surfaces.
E6013 is a versatile, all-purpose rod ideal for general repairs and light fabrication.
E7018 is a low-hydrogen electrode used for critical structures like bridges and pressure vessels. It must be kept dry.
Stainless steel and aluminum electrodes are typically used with TIG or MIG processes, but stick electrode versions are also available.
