A welding rod chart helps you choose the right stick electrode (SMAW rod) for your base metal, joint, position, and power source. Each electrode designation like E6010, E6013, or E7018 encodes its tensile strength, position capability, and coating type — which determines penetration, current type, and ideal applications. Using the correct rod prevents poor fusion, cracking, and weld failure.
Reference guide only. Amperage ranges are typical manufacturer recommendations. Always consult your specific rod's data sheet and follow applicable welding codes (AWS, ASME) for structural or pressure applications.
SMAW Stick Electrode Reference
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Welding Positions
Rod Storage Tips
Amperage Range Calculator
Electrode Number Decoder
How to Use the Welding Rod Chart
Choosing the right welding rod is one of the most important decisions in stick (SMAW) welding. The electrode affects penetration depth, tensile strength, acceptable welding positions, and what type of power source you need. This welding rod chart covers all common AWS-classified electrodes and gives you three ways to find what you need.
Electrode Chart — quick lookup
The chart view lists all common stick electrodes with their coating type, current requirements, welding positions, amperage ranges, and best applications. Use the search box to filter by rod number (e.g., 7018), application keyword (e.g., pipe), or metal type (e.g., stainless). Click any column header to sort.
Amperage Calculator — set your welder
Select the Amperage Calculator tab, pick the electrode type, then choose your rod diameter (3/32", 1/8", or 5/32"). The tool displays the recommended amperage range for that combination. Running too cold causes lack of fusion and stick-slip starts; running too hot produces excessive spatter, undercut, and burn-through on thin material. Start in the middle of the recommended range and adjust from there.
Number Decoder — understand any electrode
Type any AWS electrode designation into the decoder (e.g., E7018) and get an explanation of every digit. For a standard SMAW carbon steel electrode: E stands for electrode, the next two or three digits are the minimum tensile strength in thousands of psi, the second-to-last digit encodes welding positions, and the last digit encodes coating type and current. Knowing this lets you quickly evaluate any unfamiliar rod.
Choosing the right rod for the job
For general mild steel fabrication or repairs on clean metal, E6013 is the most forgiving and beginner-friendly choice. For structural welding or any job requiring certified welds, E7018 is the AWS D1.1 standard. For welding rusty, painted, or contaminated metal (pipe, maintenance repair), use E6010 or E6011 — their cellulosic coatings produce a digging arc that burns through contaminants. For cast iron, use ENi-CI nickel rods with proper preheat.
Low-hydrogen rod storage
E7018, E7016, and other low-hydrogen electrodes absorb atmospheric moisture within hours, which can cause porosity and hydrogen-induced cracking. Store them in a rod oven at 250–300°F (120–150°C). Once removed from the oven, use them within 4 hours (or 1 hour in high-humidity conditions). Recondition exposed rods by re-baking at 700–800°F for 1–2 hours — once only.
FAQ
Is this welding rod chart free to use?
Yes, this welding rod chart is completely free. It runs entirely in your browser — no signup, no account, and no data is sent to any server. Bookmark it for quick shop reference anytime.
What is the difference between E6010 and E6013 electrodes?
E6010 uses a cellulose sodium coating and requires DC+ current, producing deep penetration ideal for pipe welding and dirty or rusty metal. E6013 uses a rutile potassium coating, works on AC or DC, and is much easier to run — making it the go-to rod for beginners and sheet metal work. E6013 produces less penetration and a softer arc.
Why is E7018 called a low-hydrogen rod?
E7018 has an iron powder low-hydrogen coating that limits moisture absorption, reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking in the weld. This makes it the standard choice for structural steel, pressure vessels, and high-strength joints. Because it absorbs moisture easily, E7018 rods must be stored in a rod oven at 250–300°F and used within a few hours of removal.
What do the numbers in an electrode designation mean?
For example, in E7018: E = electrode, 70 = minimum tensile strength in ksi (70,000 psi), 1 = usable in all positions, 8 = low-hydrogen iron powder coating with DC+/AC current. The last one or two digits encode both the coating type and the recommended welding current.
What amperage should I use for a 3/32 vs 1/8 inch rod?
Smaller diameter rods (3/32") run at lower amperages — typically 40–130A depending on rod type. Larger 1/8" rods need more heat: 70–220A range. Use the amperage calculator on this page to get the recommended range for your specific rod and diameter. Too low causes poor fusion; too high burns through and spatter.
Can I use a 6011 rod instead of 6010?
Yes, E6011 is designed as an AC-compatible alternative to E6010. Both have similar penetration characteristics and work on dirty or rusty metal, but E6011 can run on AC welders as well as DC. If you only have an AC transformer welder, E6011 is the right substitute for pipeline-style work.
Do low-hydrogen rods really need to be stored in a rod oven?
Yes, for critical structural and code work, low-hydrogen rods (E7018, E7016, etc.) must be kept in a rod oven at 250–300°F (120–150°C). Even a few hours of exposure to humid air can cause moisture to enter the coating, leading to porosity and hydrogen cracking. For hobby or non-code work, rods stored in a sealed container with desiccant will be adequate for most jobs.
What electrodes can I use on cast iron?
ENi-CI (nickel cast iron) electrodes are the standard choice for welding cast iron. They are ductile enough to accommodate the stresses of heating and cooling. Preheat the casting to 400–700°F before welding, use short stringer beads, and peen each pass while hot to relieve stress. Allow slow cooling covered with insulating material.