Correct rod to use

admin

Now that I know how to hook my welder up (Thunderbolt AC/DC). With all the different varities of rods, all have their specific use, what type of rod would be recommended for welding (dc +) "thin wall" material. I am using a 1/8 6011C and having some problems getting the amps set so it doesnt burn the rod up but as I go lower on the amps, the rod spits and sputters on me. Any suggestions?
Reply:With practice, you can use almost anything.  I generally use 6013 for that when I have it.
Reply:6011 is NOT the rod to use on thin materials.  Even turned down to 75 amps or so with a 1/ 8 rod, you will blow right through.  I think that you would like to try a 6013,7014or even a 7018.   6011 is GP rod, but you will find it not nearly as capable of finesse.  It digs in and runs hot.  The other rods listed are smoother arc and run faster as well, which also reduces the retained heat.Esab Migmaster 250Lincoln SA 200Lincoln Ranger 8Smith Oxy Fuel setupEverlast PowerPlasma 80Everlast Power iMIG 160Everlast Power iMIG 205 Everlast Power iMIG 140EEverlast PowerARC 300Everlast PowerARC 140STEverlast PowerTIG 255EXT
Reply:Don't tell Don (dda52) he can't use 6010/6011 on thin material.
Reply:6011 is a deep penetrating rod and generally poor for thin materials unless you are skilled.I would use 6013, 7014, or 7018 and run as thin a rod as possible. I keep some 7014 rod in 3/32" for thin repairs and believe I still have some 6013 in 1/16". Every so often I see a box of thin rods on special and grab a small box. I know I snagged some small boxes of thin rods in a variety of types and sizes last year when the LWS changed suppliers. I hardly use the thin rods but its nice to have them when you need to do some thinner metals like repairing holes in the sheet metal floor of the dump truck body. I think we used 7014 in 3/32" for that the last time.
Reply:You'll stand your greatest chance with 6013 in 1/16" size.MM350P/Python/Q300MM175/Q300DialarcHFHTP MIG200PowCon300SMHypertherm380ThermalArc185Purox oaF350CrewCab4x4LoadNGo utilitybedBobcat250XMT304/Optima/SpoolmaticSuitcase12RC/Q300Suitcase8RC/Q400Passport/Q300Smith op
Reply:try dc-.........
Reply:Thanks for the input, and I thank LugWeld probabley hit close to home. I have mostly done barn corrals and pens using the GP rod and not with any finesse! Just lasting work, none of which I have had to return to, but doing the smaller work has got to me. Will try some of the different rods tomorrow and see what happens. Doing this on scrape the same size as what I will be welding for my frame so I dont waste the good stuff. Thanks again.
Reply:When welding very thin materials, for example- (.010- to .060 inch), better choose a 1/16-inch diameter rod.Midwest Metal ProductsMetal Wire Forming Fan Guards Delta-Larm