What Do the Numbers on a Welding Rod Mean? The Ultimate Classification Guide

If you’ve ever looked at a stick of welding electrode and felt like you were staring at a secret code, you aren’t alone. Numbers like E6010, E6013, or E7018 aren’t just random digits—they are a precise roadmap created by the American Welding Society (AWS) to tell you exactly how that rod will perform.

Choosing the wrong rod can lead to weak joints, excessive splatter, or even structural failure. In this guide, we’ll decode the numbers and show you how to pick the perfect partner for your Andeli welder.

Decoding the Digits: The AWS Classification System

Most stick electrodes follow a 4 or 5-digit numbering system preceded by the letter "E". Here is the breakdown:

The Prefix: E

The "E" simply stands for Electrode. It tells you this is a consumable designed for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW).

The First Two Digits: Tensile Strength

The first two (or sometimes three) digits indicate the tensile strength of the weld metal in thousands of pounds per square inch (PSI).

• 60 (e.g., E6011): 60,000 PSI tensile strength.

• 70 (e.g., E7018): 70,000 PSI tensile strength.

• 110: 110,000 PSI.

The Next-to-Last Digit: Welding Position

This digit tells you what positions the rod can handle.

• 1: All positions (Flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead).

• 2: Flat and horizontal positions only.

• 4: Flat, horizontal, vertical down, and overhead.

The Last Two Digits Together: Coating and Current

The combination of the last two digits identifies the type of flux coating and the welding current (AC, DC+, or DC-) the rod requires.

• 10: High cellulose sodium (DC+).

• 13: High titania potassium (AC, DC+, or DC-).

• 18: Low hydrogen, iron powder (AC or DC+).

Common Welding Rod Types & Their Uses

Not all rods are created equal. Here are the "Big Three" you should always have in your shop:

1. E6010 (The Deep Digger): Best for deep penetration on dirty or rusty metal. Often used for pipe welding.

2. E6013 (The Beginner’s Choice): A versatile, general-purpose rod. It strikes an easy arc and produces a beautiful, smooth finish. Perfect for light repairs and thin metal.

3. E7018 (The Structural Specialist): Known as a "low-hydrogen" rod. It produces incredibly strong, crack-resistant welds. Essential for structural steel and heavy-duty projects.

How to Choose the Right Welding Rod

When selecting a rod for your next project, ask yourself these three questions:

1. What is the base metal? Match the rod strength to the metal strength.

2. How thick is the material? Thinner metals require smaller diameters (e.g., 3/32") to prevent burn-through.

3. What is the welding position? If you are welding overhead, ensure your third digit is a "1".

Conclusion

Understanding what the numbers on a welding rod mean is the first step toward professional-quality welds. Whether you are a hobbyist or a pro, pairing the right rod with a high-performance Andeli machine ensures a stable arc and a lasting bond.

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