Weld Rod is also known as a weld electrode used in shielded metal arc welding (also known as SMAW). There are many different types of electrodes used in the shielded metal arc welding, (SMAW) process.
ELECTRODE IDENTIFICATION
Arc welding electrodes are identified using the American Welding Society numbering system and are 1/16" to 5/16". A weld rod identified as a 1/8" E6010 would have the following characteristics:
The electrode is 1/8" in diameter.
The "E" stands for arc welding electrode.
The second two digits indicate the tensile strength of the weld material in kips per inch. This will be any one of the following:
- 60XX = 60,000 psi
- 70XX = 70,000 psi
- 80XX = 80,000 psi
The third digit describes the position the electrode can be used in:
- EXX1X is for use in all positions
- EXX2X is for use in flat and horizontal positions
- EXX3X is for flat welding
The fourth digit will tell you the type of current as well as the chemical make up of the flux. See the individual pages for the different rods.
