6013 Welding Rod – Meaning, Uses, and Amperage

The E6013 is an ideal welding rod to use on steels of different kinds. With its high penetration ability, it is suitable for workpieces with much thickness. The electrode is very easy to use as you can pretty much hook it up in any way you want.

Since the electrode has very high popularity among beginners and pros alike, we think it is time you have a good idea about it. This article contains anything you want and need to know regarding 6013. We also compared it with the E6011 electrode to show you the differences.

Specifications

The E6013 is a vastly used welding rod that is especially good for carbon steel. When welding with it, you will see a steady and stable arc with low noise. Hence, the rod literally gained the title of ‘easy rod’ and ‘novice rod’.

You will often see that American welders tend not to use this electrode while Europeans and Asians use it a lot. It is because the item is yet to be popular in America. The common misunderstanding of it, being suitable for only beginners is also a reason for that.

E6013 is well-known for its flow rate and clean root pass welds. Also, while using this electrode, you will deal with a low amount of oxidization. Because of the smooth flow, the welding happens quicker, and the outcome comes as desired.

Meaning of 6013

You can easily find out about the qualities and the specifications of an AWS-designated welding rod from its title. Like 6013, they will always have four or five digits where each represents something. Let’s give you a short detail-

• The first two digits define the tensile strength of the welding rod. In this case, the 60 means it has a tensile strength of 69,700 PSI, making it close to 60 KPI. If there are five digits in the name, it will be the first three digits instead of two.
• The third (fourth if there are five digits in total) represents the suitable welding positions. If it is 1, like this case, it allows welding from all angles and positions.
• The final digit indicates the flux coating, slag type, and suitable polarity. Here, the 3 means that the electrode accepts both AC and DC connections on both straight and reverse polarity.

Uses of E6013

When it comes to applications, 6013 electrode has many. It is precisely because it supports both polarities and has a stable arc when welding. While the electrode is a medium penetration rod, you can have a deep one by using its spray arcs.

With the use of this welding rod, you can weld-

• Carbon steel.
• Mild steel.
• Galvanized steel.

After welding with 6013, you can quickly remove the slags. This welding rod excels at multi-layered welding applications. Here are some fields that 6013 is suitable for-

• Ship Building.
• Sheet metal welding.
• Autobody welding.
• Highrise, bridges, and any similar large structures.
• Repairing highly worn-out mild steel.
• Light fabrication.

Polarity of 6013

As mentioned above, the E6013 welding rod is suitable for both AC and DC connections. You can use either straight or reverse polarity here. Hence, the item is so flexible and adaptive in all situations.

Size and Amperage Setting for 6013

Before following our suggestion, make sure to check the manual you got with the welding rod. There should be an amperage setting chart in it. If not, contact the manufacturers or follow this chart below.

6013 VS 6011

Many people wonder about the differences between the E6013 and E6011 welding rods. They are so similar in many factors. Let’s make a comparison below-

• Arc- 6013 produces a comparatively more stable arc than 6011. The latter will provide an aggressive arc.
• Workpiece thickness- It is ideal to go for thin metal sheets with 6013 due to its low to mild penetration. 6011, on the other hand, has deeper penetration. So, it is excellent for thicker workpieces.
• Slag composition- The slags that form from 6013 are so dense. It is almost like 7018 in terms of slag formation. Slags from 6011 are more likely to crack down automatically.
• Motion- It is a bit harder to manipulate 6013 as it is a drag rod. The 6011 can be whipped and requires less steadiness of your hands.
• Finish- 6013 leaves a more smooth and cleaner finish than 6011.

Conclusion

E6013 welding rod shows its maximum benefits once you get used to it. As the electrode grants a smooth finish, it is suited to weld places revealed to public eyes. When welding with this item, using a bit of whipping motion can give a better result.

Before starting the weld, position yourself properly that it is easy to see the welding area. Since 6013 supports welding from all angles, you won’t face any issues. Also, make sure to clean up the workpiece beforehand to gain a better penetration.