Different Types of Stick electrodes and practical applications for each
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This is a quick overview of some of the more commonly used stick rods along with applications.
As a welding student In the USA, you should focus on learning 6010 and 7018 because these two are the 2 main rods used for commercial pipe and general construction.
6010 is commonly used for open root pipe welding and 7018 is common for structural welding.
In welding school, students often start off using 6013 rods because 6013 rods are easy to start and restart. But 6013 are not used much for commercial work in the USA.
6010
6010 is a deep-penetrating, fast-freeze electrode that runs on DC+ (DCEP electrode positive) aka reverse polarity… and is known for its aggressive arc and digging action. It’s ideal for open root pipe welding and dirty, rusty, or painted steel where other rods struggle. The puddle is fluid but freezes quickly, making it great for vertical and overhead work.
6011
6011 is very similar to 6010 but can run on both AC and DC, making it more versatile on basic machines. It has a deep, forceful arc that cuts through rust, paint, and mill scale. It’s commonly used for repair work, farm equipment, and situations where metal isn’t perfectly clean.
One often overlooked benefit of 6011 rods is that they will work on most small inverter machines where 6010 won’t. Being able to make a quick weld using a small welder and 115 volt drop cord with a 3/32” 6011 is a hack that lets you make money.
6013
6013 is a light-penetrating, easy-to-use electrode that produces a smooth, stable arc and a clean-looking bead. It works well on thin metal and sheet steel where burn-through is a concern. 6013 rods are sometimes called a “farmers rod,” because they work so well with the small buzz box AC welders found in every farmers barn way back when. 6013 rods are popular for beginners and general-purpose welding.
7014
7014 is an iron powder electrode that offers higher deposition rates and a smooth, easy-running arc. It has medium penetration and produces a nice-looking bead with minimal effort. Great for flat and horizontal welds where speed and appearance matter.
7016
7016 is a low-hydrogen rod similar to 7018 but designed to run well on AC as well as DC. It provides good strength, moderate penetration, and improved crack resistance. It’s often used in structural applications when low hydrogen properties are needed but AC power is being used.
7018
7018 is a low-hydrogen, iron powder electrode known for producing strong, ductile welds with excellent mechanical properties. It runs smooth with a soft arc and is widely used in structural, code work, and critical applications. 7018 rods need dry storage (rod oven) to maintain low hydrogen levels and prevent cracking.
7024
7024 is a high iron powder “drag rod” designed for very high deposition rates in flat and horizontal positions only. Even multi pass horizontal fillet welds can be a challenge with the heavy flux swirling in the puddle. It produces wide, smooth beads with minimal skill needed, but lacks versatility in out-of-position welding. Ideal for production welding where speed and efficiency are priorities. 7024 rods run on DCEP but also run exceptionally well on AC.
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