Rod and Amp Selection

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Welding 1" x 1" x 1/8" square tube steel.  I was told no gap because it's only 1/8" thick.  What type size rod, how many amps.
Reply:What rod can you run well?I'm serious, if this is for a noncritical project, almost any rod will work as far as type. Many guys have an easier time making nice beads with 6013, 7014 or 7024. if so one of those would be my 1st choice. 7018, and 6011/6010 usually takes a bit more skill to run.As far as size of rod, I could do that with 3/32" with no issues, but a smaller rod like 5/64 or 1/16" might be a better choice for a newer welder. Rod size will some what limit rod selection. You probably can't find 7024 in the smaller sizes for example. 6013, 7014, 6011 and 7018 can all be found in 1/16" as well as 3/32". but 5/64ths is a bit harder to locate in most rod types.I'd probably go with 7014 or maybe 7018 simply because thats the rods I have on hand in the smallest sizes right now. They are also the rods I'd probably have the easiest time running and I know I can get them in 1/16" with no issues if I need to.Amps will depend on rod size and type you pick. The package usually suggests the amp range for that particular rod and size..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:while i'm a novice welder myself, and i don't have much to offer most of the time, i have found 5/64 6013 at Tractor Supply Company.they sell Hobart rods, for what it's worth.they do have a good selection of 1/16 inch rods as well.only downside, my package of 5/64 6013 does not have a amp range listed on the label anywhere.on square tube, i'd try my 3/32 6011.  very easy to get penetration, and not too hard to control once you get the whiping motion down.  there are some decent videos on youtube on 6011 that can show you how to use the 6011.  Otherwise, i hear the 6013 is easier to weld with ... kinda itchin to try mine
Reply:for a newbie 1/16" 6013 @ +or- 40 amps should be easy on you. 3/32" 6011 i think would pose a bit of a problem on a newbie on 1/8". JMO.225NT bobcatAEAD200LEScott 125mm175, mm252 w 30A, PT225mm211, TA 181iHyper Therm 380, cut master 529100X & XX, Digital Elite6 Victor setssmith little torch, meco midget kalamazoo band sawsteel max saw evoulution circular saw