▸Keep electrodes in a hot rod oven (250-300°F) until use. Low-hydrogen rods exposed >4 hours must be re-baked per manufacturer spec.
▸E6010/E6011: whip-and-pause technique for root. Listen for the crackle — consistent arc sound = good penetration.
▸Cellulosic rods produce heavy smoke. Ensure adequate ventilation, especially in confined spaces.
▸E7018: drag technique (slight push angle). Keep a tight arc — long arc = porosity and lost low-hydrogen protection.
▸Open root: fit-up is EVERYTHING. Consistent root opening = consistent penetration. Check gap at least every 12 inches.
▸Use bridge tacks or tack from inside when possible. Tacks in the groove must be ground to feather edge before root pass.
▸Pipe: weld 12→6 clock on one side, then 12→6 on the other. Tie-ins at 6 and 12 o'clock need extra attention.
▸6G: the 2 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions are the hardest — transitioning between vertical and overhead. Reduce amperage slightly there.
▸Internal purge may be required for certain specs (stainless, alloy). Check project requirements.
▸Multi-electrode WPS: GRIND the root pass before switching to fill electrode. Hot pass must fuse completely into root.
▸Preheat category is based on the non-low-hydrogen electrode (E6010/E6011 = Category A, higher preheat than E7018).
▸Verify preheat with a temperature-indicating crayon (Tempilstik) or contact pyrometer. Check 3 inches from the weld on both sides.