How to Pick the Right Welding Electrode Size
The American Welding Society or AWS has specifications for various welding electrodes. The organization classifies them according to their:
- Mechanical properties
- Type of flux coating
- Positions in which electrodes can be utilized
- Current with which electrodes can be used.<!–more–>
Size is a vital part of electrode classification. Choosing the right electrode size can prevent poor welds due to low or high current. The right size can also limit electrode damage.
Choosing the right welding electrode is vital to the success of the welding task. There are two usual classifications for welding rods, 60XX and 70XX. The latter is a structural quality welding electrode. It is used for constructing bridges, buildings, and other structures that require structural rating. The former is an all-purpose electrode that can be used in all positions.
You should first find out what type of welding electrode you need. The thoriated tungsten electrode provides good penetration and arc-starting properties over various currents. Electrodes with zirconium are utilized for critical welds in the missile and aircraft industries. Knowing the type of welding electrode to use is important because two different electrodes can provide different currents.
The next step is to find the right size of electrode. The right size will provide the correct current for the job. Having inadequate current will result to a poor welding job.
You can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for a material to determine the welding current you need. You can also use the specifications to determine the size that will provide the welding current that you require for the job. The higher the current, the bigger size of the electrode you need. For a 275 amps of current, you should use an electrode with 5/16 inches in diameter. A 1/16 inch diameter electrode will not be sufficient for the job.
