Longevity WeldAll 160PI/200PI/250PI - Manual (Page 42)

160PI/200PI/250PI AC/DC Series IGBT Machines
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5. Electrode selection. Electrodes are usually given performance and characteristic ratings using a system of
letters and numbers determined by the American Welding Society (AWS). The rating system includes the
minimum tensile strength of the finished weld, the weld position (flat, vertical, horizontal, or overhead 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 to determine for yourself
the best electrode to use.
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 ground cable connections.
Proper weld identification: Overlap and undercutting are two main causes of weld failure. Proper washing of the