Brands and marking of welding electrodes

When working with a welding machine, you have probably more than once come across the question of what does it mean marking of welding electrodes and how to choose the right solution for a specific task. Obviously, basic questions like diameter and metal are generally straightforward, so in this article, we'll focus on more detailed descriptions. brands of welding electrodes.

The ability to "read" type and brand of welding electrodes Allows you to perform work more efficiently and professionally, making your welding more productive. And this (quality and speed), as we know, promises additional income. So, let's understand the markings and symbols.

Marking of welding electrodes: basic provisions

It is worth noting that types and brands of welding electrodes are available in a huge range, However, each product is labeled according to the established GOST standard. Although this may seem complicated to a beginner, it's actually extremely simple, and once you understand it, you'll be able to easily determine the intricacies of using a particular electrode correctly.

Marking and decoding of welding electrodes allow you to immediately receive complete information about the material:

• type;
• brand;
• diameter;
• scope of application;
• thickness of the covering layer;
• index;
• type of coating;
• possible positions for work;
• recommended current type;

The first characters indicate the type and maximum permissible loads. For example, E42 indicates that the weld can withstand 42 kg per 1 mm2 of weld area.

Brand, manufacturer and diameter

Next, the brand and manufacturer are indicated., after which the diameter and purpose are immediately indicated.

The diameter of the electrode is indicated in the marking by a numberIf there is no corresponding number in the designation after the coating thickness, then the electrode diameter is indicated on the stamp.

Letter designations for indicating the purpose of welding electrodes in marking:

• U – welding of carbon and low-alloy structural steels with tensile strength up to 600 MPa;
• L – welding of alloyed structural steels with tensile strength over 600 MPa;
• T – welding of alloyed heat-resistant steels;
• B – welding of high-alloy steels with special properties;
• H – surfacing of surface layers with special properties.

More detailed information can be found in GOST 9467-75.

Thickness of the coating of the welding electrodes

After the appointment, the coating thickness is specified. There are four main types:

• M – thin;
• C — average;
• D – thick;
• G – maximum.

Strength characteristics of electrodes

After specifying the coating thickness Usually there is a group of indices that indicate the strength characteristics of the weld material according to GOST 9467-75.

Types of welding electrode coatings

The following designation type and brand of welding electrodes The type of coating is indicated. The following list of coatings is distinguished, each with its own approvals and characteristics:

• A – Sour, allows welding in any position except vertically downwards; welding can be performed with AC or DC current. Not recommended for steels with high sulfur and carbon content. A disadvantage is the potential for weld cracks and excessive spatter. Welds made with electrodes coated with this type of coating are prone to hot cracking.
• B – Main features. Designed for welding with direct current and reverse polarity in any position except vertically downwards, they can be used for welding thick workpieces.
• R – Rutile. Welding is permitted in any position except vertically downwards. Welding can be performed with either alternating or direct current. Not recommended for use in structures exposed to high temperatures.
• C – Cellulose. Welding can be performed with AC or DC current in any position. Recommended for assembly work. Avoid overheating the electrode. High spatter losses occur. Not recommended for welding hardenable steels.
• AC, RB – Mixed type. Designed for welding structures and pipelines in any position except overhead. Characterized by low operating costs.

Spatial orientation of welding works

It is important to remember that not all electrodes can be used for welding in any spatial orientation. welding work with an electrode allowed to perform, indicate them brands.

There are four types of spatial orientation for electrodes:

• horizontal arrangement;
• lower location;
• ceiling location;
• vertical arrangement;

Marking of welding electrodes for manual welding indicates the tolerances for work in spatial orientation as follows:

• The electrode can be used for welding in any position;
• Welding is allowed in all positions except vertical from top to bottom;
• Any position is allowed except for ceiling and vertical from top to bottom;
• It is intended only for the seams of the lower and lower, so-called “boat”.

Current type and polarity

After specifying the spatial orientation, the welding electrode marking also contains information regarding the current for which it is intended. The following system for designating direct welding current exists:

• 0 – reverse;
• 1 – any, voltage 50V;
• 2 – direct (50V);
• 3 – reverse 50V;
• 4 – any 70V;
• 5 – Direct 70V;
• 6 – Reverse 70V;
• 7 – Any 90V;
• 8 – direct 90V;
• 9 – reverse 90V.