E6012 vs E6013: Which General-Purpose Stick Rod to Use
Both are easy-running 60 ksi rods for general-purpose work, but E6012 has slightly deeper penetration and runs primarily on AC/DCEN, while E6013 runs on all...
Key Differences
| Attribute | E6012 | E6013 |
|---|---|---|
| Difference 1 | E6012 has slightly more penetration than E6013 due to its sodium-based rutile flux | |
| Difference 2 | E6013 has a potassium-based flux that produces a smoother, softer arc | |
| Difference 3 | E6012 prefers DCEN or AC | E6013 runs well on any polarity |
| Difference 4 | E6013 produces a flatter, smoother bead profile |
Use E6012 when:
When you need slightly more penetration than E6013 provides. Bridging poor fit-up or gaps. You are running AC or DCEN and want more dig than E6013.
Use E6013 when:
General-purpose fabrication. Thin material. You want the smoothest possible arc. Beginners learning to weld. Any polarity machine.
How E6012 and E6013 Work Together
In practice, E6013 has largely replaced E6012 in most shops. E6013 is more versatile on different polarities and produces a nicer bead. E6012 holds a niche for gap bridging and slightly heavier work.
Common Mistake With E6012
Expecting a significant performance difference. These are very similar rods. The choice usually comes down to what your local supplier stocks.
Where to Buy
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