Longevity ARCMATE 205 - Manual (Page 33)

160/205 MIG Welder/ARC Welder
Page 32 of 37
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or a combination of two or more positions) and the flux type. Additional information may be given. Each
manufacturer has their individual name and terminology as well. As there is no general recommendation
that can be made about a particular electrode selection, except for practice welds, a electrode designated
by the AWS as E 6011, E 6013, E 7014, or E 7018 may be used, each having its own distinct features and
purpose. These are among the most common electrodes used in the industry and are not difficult to find. E
6011 electrodes are not as smooth running as some of the other electrodes, but offer the advantage of
being able to weld on rusty metal and contaminated surfaces. It is widely used and requires very little skill
to begin using. This is not a particular endorsement of an E6011, rather a simple example of what may be
used in developing proficient technique. It is recommended that a variety of electrodes be used and
practiced with. Consultation with an experienced local welding supplier will help greatly in determining
what welding electrode is the best for your given situation. Many times, samples or small packages of
electrodes are available at relatively low cost.
Stick Electrode Chart Example: E 60 1 3
Strength
60--60,000 psi,
70--70,000 psi
Weld Position
1--All positions: Flat, Vertical, Horizontal, & Overhead
2--Flat Position or Horizontal Fillets Only
3--Flat Position Only
Weld Characteristics
0--Non-low hydrogen, DC Reverse polarity
1--Non-low hydrogen, AC or DC Reverse polarity
2--Non-low hydrogen, AC or DC Straight polarity
3--Non-low hydrogen, AC or DC Either polarity
4--Non-low hydrogen, iron powder coating, AC or DC Reverse polarity
5--Low-hydrogen, DC Reverse polarity
6--Low-hydrogen, AC or DC Reverse polarity
7--Non-low hydrogen, iron powder coating, AC or DC Reverse polarity
8--Low hydrogen, iron powder coating, AC or DC Reverse polarity
Polarity Definition
electrode negative =straight polarity (typical stock machine setup)
electrode positive = reverse polarity
Be sure to observe the electrode manufacturer recommendations regarding polarity. If the weld appears
lumpy, porous or otherwise malformed, change the polarity of the ground cable and the electrode holder
cable. Many electrodes run with in reverse polarity, (DCEP) setting. A few run with a straight polarity
(DCEN). Some will run either way. For reverse polarity (DCEP) stick welding, swap the electrode holder and