Welding has revolutionized manufacturing and fabrication across the world, but with so many options out there, it can be tough to know the best-suited welding rod for the job. According to the latest survey, 92 percent of businesses use Gas Metal Arc (GMAW) welding for mild steel, and nearly 50 percent of welders prefer stainless steel or mild steel rods.
So, what is the best welding rod for mild steel? In this article, we’ll go over all the details and inform you about the best options for this type of welding.
What is the Best Welding Rod for Mild Steel?
Welding rods are used to join two pieces of mild steel together.There are a variety of welding rods available for this purpose and choosing the right one for your application is an important task. In this article, we’ll outline the factors you should consider when choosing the best welding rod for mild steel.
Types of Welding Rods
Before we discuss the best welding rods for mild steel, let’s first understand the different types of welding rods available:- Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding Rods – These rods are typically used to create welding joints in thin sheets of mild steel.
They are available in two different sizes – 0. 062” and 0. 092”.
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) Rods – These rods are used to create welds on thicker sheets of mild steel. They are available in various sizes and alloys, ranging from 0.
030” to 1/4”.
- Metal Inert Gas (MIG) Welding Rods – These are the most common type of welding rods and are used to create strong welds.
They are available in a variety of sizes and alloys, ranging from 1/8” to 1/4”.
- Flux Core Welding Rods – These rods are mostly used for welding thin sheets of mild steel. They come with a flux-core wire, which helps with welding action and protection.
Factors to Consider
Choosing the right welding rod for mild steel isn’t an easy task. Here are some of the factors you must consider before you make your decision.- Thickness of the Material – The thickness of the steel you’re welding will play a big role in determining the type of welding rod you need. If the steel is thin, then you’ll need to use a TIG rod. For thicker steel, then you’ll need to use a GMAW or MIG rod.
- Welding Position – The position of the weld will also determine the type of welding rod you need. If you’re welding in a flat position, then a GMAW rod will be suitable. For welding in an overhead position, then a MIG rod is best.
- Power Source – The type of power source you’re using will play an important role in determining the type of welding rod you need. For TIG welding, you’ll need a high-frequency power source. For GMAW, you’ll need DC or AC current. And for MIG welding, you’ll need a DC power source.
- Budget – The cost of the welding rods you need will be a factor when making your decision. TIG rods tend to be the more expensive option, while GMAW and MIG rods are generally more affordable.