MMA Electrodes

What to look for

Pick the electrode by job and position: rutile (6013) strikes easily and suits general and vertical-down work, while low-hydrogen basic (7018) gives tougher, crack-resistant welds for structural steel but must be kept dry. Match rod diameter to plate thickness and set amps to the rod's range, and store electrodes in a dry box — damp rods, especially basic ones, cause porosity and poor welds.