6013/6011

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I have been teaching myself to weld using a Bobcat 250, and have been doing ok with a 6013 rod.  When I tried a 6011 rod, it seems as if the electrode burns up inside the flux, loosing the arc.  It turns into a flame from there then goes out.Any idea what I am doing wrong?Thanks,
Reply:Sounds like you have the wrong polarity settingWhat polarity are you using?  6013 runs best in DCEN(straight), while 6011 runs best in DCEP(reverse)?Benson's Mobile Welding - Dayton, OH metro area - AWS Certified Welding Inspector
Reply:what amperage?  what size rod?
Reply:I have the Bobcat 250 set to Stick +, 40-100A, and the right dial set to 2.5.  1/8'' rod.Do I just move the selector to the Tig - setting, or switch the cables (for reverse polarity)?Thanks,Rob
Reply:I'm no expert but I've found that 6011/6013 will both burn ok on DCEN/ AC or DCEP, just affects the penetration depending. On 6011 I have seen were the end of the electrode will burn (flame) for a few seconds after stop welding. On 6011 the metal will burn up some inside the flux but not a issue like it is on 7018 were you got to chip it off some times to re-strike an arc. Don't know maybe you got your current to low.
Reply:Dakook is right when he says you can run either rod in either polarity.  I just really prefer 6013 in DCEN.Stick + on the Bobcat selector switch is DCEP.  40-100 amp tap, plus 2.5 (6 amps per divison) on the right dial = 55 amps; give or take a few. Sounds way too cold for 1/8" rod.Try 100 amps, assuming your welding horizontally or flatTry 75 amps for verticalTo get to DCEN, you can either swap the leads or switch the welder to the TIG position on the selector switch.  End result should be teh same.  IF others are using the machine, it might be kinder to just use the selector switch.  Guarantee you'll irritate the next TIG welder who uses that bobcat if you forget to put the leads back... Originally Posted by robtexasI have the Bobcat 250 set to Stick +, 40-100A, and the right dial set to 2.5.  1/8'' rod.Do I just move the selector to the Tig - setting, or switch the cables (for reverse polarity)?Thanks,Rob
Reply:Do you think that your amperage recommendations are based on a certain cable size or length?  I am using rather small cables, #1 ~ 50' Lead, 50' Ground. I am only trying to lean, and not take on huge projects... that's why I bought the smaller cables.