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BWS187GE3 - E3 Purple Rare Earth Tungsten Electrodes 1/8" x 7" (10-Pack)

Packaging: 10 pcs in a pack
$139.40/pak $76.81/10 pcs in a pack only $76.81/pakSave 45%

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OVERVIEW

The Universal Tungsten for Every Job

Stop switching tungstens every time you change base materials. The Best Welds E3 Purple Tungsten (1/8" x 7") is the ultimate universal electrode for the modern welder. Whether you are welding mild steel brackets, stainless steel exhaust systems, or aluminum intake manifolds, the E3 purple tip handles it all. This versatility makes it an essential addition to any TIG welder's arsenal, simplifying inventory and ensuring you are always ready for the next project.

If you are used to welding with Red (Thoriated) tungsten, you will notice an immediate improvement in arc starting with the E3. The rare earth mix ensures reliable ignition every time, even at lower amperages. Once the arc is established, it remains incredibly stable and focused, allowing for precise puddle control and high-quality bead aesthetics. The 1/8-inch diameter is perfect for your heavier jobs, handling the heat of high-amp welding without splitting or spitting, which is a common issue with inferior pure or zirconiated tungstens.

Durability is another standout feature. Because E3 tungsten runs cooler, the tip stays sharp longer. This means less time walking to the bench grinder and more time under the hood laying dimes. For welders working on critical components where tungsten inclusion is a failure point, the structural integrity of the E3 tip provides peace of mind. It resists thermal shock and maintains a clean point, ensuring your welds remain contaminant-free and structurally sound.

Why Welders Choose Purple E3

  • One Rod, All Metals: Weld Steel, Stainless, Aluminum, Titanium, and Copper without changing your setup.
  • Better Starts: dependable arc ignition reduces frustration and defects at the start of the weld.
  • Longer Life: Spend less time grinding and more time welding thanks to superior erosion resistance.
Additional Information
Diameter:3.2mm (1/8")
Tungsten Type:E3
Used To Weld:Steel or Stainless or Aluminum
Length:7 in
Color Code:Purple
Material Composition:Rare Earth Mix (Oxides of Lanthanum, Zirconium, Yttrium)
Current Type:AC/DC
Arc Stability:Excellent
AWS Classification:EWG (Manufacturer Specific)
Packaging Description:10 pcs in a pack
Used To Weld?:Steel or Stainless or Aluminum

INCLUDED

  • 10 x E3 Purple Tungsten Electrodes (1/8" x 7")
  • Plastic Storage Case

APPLICATIONS

  • TIG welding of Carbon and Mild Steel
  • Fabrication of Stainless Steel components
  • AC welding of Aluminum alloys
  • Pipe and tube welding
  • Aerospace and precision fabrication
  • Automated and orbital welding systems
  • Maintenance and Repair Operations (MRO)

FAQ

E3 tungsten (Purple) is a universal electrode used for TIG welding a wide variety of materials, including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and titanium. It works on both AC and DC polarities.

No, E3 purple tungsten is non-radioactive. It uses a mix of rare earth oxides (Lanthanum, Zirconium, and Yttrium) instead of Thorium, making it safer to grind and use.

Yes, E3 tungsten is excellent for AC welding of aluminum. It maintains a stable arc and holds its tip geometry well, often outperforming Pure or Zirconiated tungsten in modern inverter machines.

E3 offers similar or better conductivity and arc stability compared to Thoriated tungsten but runs cooler and lasts longer. It also eliminates the radiation hazard associated with Thoriated electrodes.

A 1/8" (3.2mm) tungsten electrode is typically rated for approximately 150 to 250 amps, depending on the current type (AC vs DC) and the gas cup size used.

For DC welding, grind the tip to a point lengthwise (parallel to the rod). For AC welding, you can grind it to a point or a truncated cone; E3 holds a point well but can also form a small ball at the tip if desired for AC.

The purple color code identifies the electrode as E3, which contains a mixture of rare earth oxides (typically 1.5% Lanthanum, 0.08% Zirconium, and 0.08% Yttrium).