E6013 vs E7014: Choosing Between Smooth Running Stick Rods
E6013 is a 60 ksi smooth-running rod for thin material and learning. E7014 is a 70 ksi iron-powder rod with higher deposition for faster general fabrication. Both are easy to run.
E6013: Thin material under 3/16 inch. E7014: General fabrication on material 3/16 inch and thicker.
Which One Should You Use?
Pick E6013 if:
Thin material under 3/16 inch. Beginners who need the most forgiving arc possible. Situations where penetration control matters more than speed.
Runs on AC, DCEP, DCEN, 40-300A range. E6013 full amperage chart
Pick E7014 if:
General fabrication on material 3/16 inch and thicker. When you want 70 ksi strength without the moisture sensitivity of E7018. Faster fillet welding where deposition rate matters.
Runs on AC, DCEP, DCEN, 80-350A range. E7014 full amperage chart
Key Differences
| Attribute | E6013 | E7014 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 60,000 psi (60 ksi) | 70,000 psi (70 ksi) |
| Flux / Deposition | Rutile flux; standard deposition rate | Iron powder rutile flux; about 30% higher deposition rate |
| Best Material Thickness | Better on thin material due to lower heat input and lighter penetration | Better on 3/16 in. and thicker; produces heavier beads with more slag |
| Skill Level | Very beginner-friendly; most forgiving arc of any stick rod | Easy to run but slightly more aggressive; not as forgiving on thin stock |
Settings at a Glance
Machine settings and operating characteristics side by side. For full amperage charts, see the individual electrode pages.
| Setting | E6013 | E7014 |
|---|---|---|
| Polarity | AC, DCEP, DCEN | AC, DCEP, DCEN |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead |
| Penetration | light | medium |
| Coating | high titania potassium | iron powder titania |
| Amps at 3/32" | 40-90A | 80-110A |
| Amps at 1/8" | 70-120A | 100-160A |
| Amps at 5/32" | 105-180A | 140-210A |
How E6013 and E7014 Work Together
E7014 is sometimes called the easy version of E7018, same tensile strength, easier arc, no low-hydrogen storage requirements. The trade-off is that E7014 is not a low-hydrogen rod, so it cannot substitute for E7018 on code work.
Common Mistake With E6013
Using E7014 where a code or WPS specifies E7018. They have the same tensile strength but E7014 is not low-hydrogen and will not pass code inspection.
Practical Differences
| Factor | E6013 | E7014 |
|---|---|---|
| Common Brands | Fleetweld 37, Hobart 413 | Fleetweld 47, Hobart 14A |
Where to Buy
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E6013 vs E7014: Common Questions
Which is better, E6013 or E7014?
It depends on the joint and your equipment. Key differences: Tensile Strength: E6013 has 60,000 psi (60 ksi), while E7014 has 70,000 psi (70 ksi). Flux / Deposition: E6013 has rutile flux; standard deposition rate, while E7014 has iron powder rutile flux; about 30% higher deposition rate. Best Material Thickness: E6013 has better on thin material due to lower heat input and lighter penetration, while E7014 has better on 3/16 in. and thicker; produces heavier beads with more slag. Check the spec differences above and pick based on your actual situation.
Can I substitute E6013 for E7014?
No. Different rod, different behavior. Penetration differs: E6013 is light, E7014 is medium. Coating chemistry is different (high titania potassium vs iron powder titania), so the arc and slag behave differently.
Can I use both E6013 and E7014 on the same joint?
E7014 is sometimes called the easy version of E7018, same tensile strength, easier arc, no low-hydrogen storage requirements. The trade-off is that E7014 is not a low-hydrogen rod, so it cannot substitute for E7018 on code work.
Reference data only. Verify all settings against manufacturer documentation and the applicable welding code before use. Amperage ranges are starting points that vary by position, fit-up, and material. Welding involves serious injury risks including burns, electric shock, fume exposure, and fire. This site does not replace proper training, certification, or employer safety procedures. See full terms of use.
Data sourced from AWS A5.1.