Shelf life and storage of electrodes

The shelf life and storage of electrodes may sound interesting, “we’re not storing bananas, after all.” "Still, maintaining the quality of welding electrodes is an important aspect of production, and improper storage can lead to undesirable consequences. Storing welding electrodes requires specific conditions that must be observed to ensure the product retains its properties.

Welding electrodes should be stored in designated areas, which should be dry and heated in winter. The temperature should not fall below 14 degrees Celsius, and the humidity level should not exceed 50 percent. This can be achieved by installing air conditioners, using high-quality thermal and waterproofing, and ensuring proper soil drainage around the storage area.

It's worth noting that the temperature for storing welding electrodes must be stable, avoiding fluctuations throughout the day. This is because dew formed due to temperature fluctuations produces moisture, which the electrode packaging absorbs over time.

Storing electrodes in stacks is the most common method. However, it's important to ensure the integrity of the goods in the bottom boxes. To ensure easy handling, it's recommended to equip the warehouse with the necessary lifting mechanisms. Furthermore, it's advisable to store welding electrodes by brand, diameter, and batch.

If storage procedures are followed correctly, the shelf life of the electrodes can be unlimited.

However, long-term storage still requires repeated testing and, if necessary, calcination and sorting.

Therefore, proper storage of welding electrodes is essential for ensuring high product quality. Following storage recommendations will ensure high-quality welds and maximum work speed.

Recommendations for storing welding electrodes include several additional rules that must be taken into account to maintain the quality of the material.

• When storing boxes or cartons of electrodes on pallets or shelves, avoid contact with the floor or walls.
• If welding is carried out in an open space, moisture should not be allowed to enter the packaging containing the electrodes.
• A partially used pack of welding electrodes should be sealed tightly to prevent the packaging from becoming damp.

Electrode baking methods depend on the coating type. Basic coatings require baking before use at 300-350°C for up to 1 hour. Rutile-cellulose coatings do not require baking before welding if stored properly. However, if moistened, they require drying for 30-60 minutes at 110°C. Rutile coatings do not require baking if stored properly, but if moistened, they require baking for 40-60 minutes at a constant temperature of 150°C. All these recommendations will help maintain the quality of welding electrodes and ensure successful welding.