Cellulose Stick vs Self-Shielded Flux-Core for Field Welding
E6010 stick vs E71T-11 self-shielded flux-core for outdoor and field repair. Both work without gas but handle very differently.
Key Differences
| Attribute | E6010 | E71T-11 |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Stick - manual rod | Self-shielded flux-core - wire feed |
| Penetration Control | Excellent - tight arc digs deep | Good but less operator control |
| Deposition Rate | Low - frequent rod changes | Higher - continuous wire feed |
| Polarity | DCEP only | DCEN (check manufacturer spec) |
| Dirty Metal Tolerance | Excellent - burns through rust and paint | Good - flux helps but less aggressive |
| Equipment | Simple DC stick welder | Wire feeder with polarity swap capability |
| Root Pass Capability | Excellent - standard for pipe roots | Poor - too much deposition for root control |
| Wind Tolerance | Excellent | Excellent (no external gas) |
Use E6010 when:
Use E71T-11 when:
How E6010 and E71T-11 Work Together
E6010 gives the welder total control of penetration through arc length and manipulation. E71T-11 provides faster deposition for fill passes. Many pipeline and structural field crews use E6010 for root passes and switch to self-shielded flux-core for fill and cap. E6010 requires a DC welder with good arc force control. E71T-11 needs a wire feeder but can be run by less experienced operators.
Common Mistake With Cellulose Stick
Running E71T-11 with DCEP polarity. Most self-shielded flux-core wires require DCEN (electrode negative). Running DCEP causes excessive spatter, poor penetration, and porosity. Always check the wire manufacturer polarity recommendation.
Where to Buy
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