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64023200 - 1/8" Red Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes (10-Pack)

Packaging: 10 pcs in a pack
$69.80/pak $49.86/10 pcs in a pack only $49.86/pakSave 29%

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OVERVIEW

The Classic Red Tip for Precision Steel Welding

When it comes to TIG welding steel and stainless steel, nothing beats the familiarity and performance of the "Red" tungsten. This pack of 2% Thoriated Tungsten electrodes (1/8" diameter) gives you the stable, crisp arc you need to lay down perfect beads. Whether you are working on a roll cage, a custom exhaust, or industrial pipe, these electrodes are built to handle the heat and keep on performing.

Why do welders love Thoriated tungsten? It's all about the start. The thorium additive makes starting the arc a breeze, preventing those frustrating stutter-starts that can mar your workpiece. Once the arc is lit, it stays focused. The 1/8" size is a heavy hitter, perfect for when you need to crank up the amps for thicker materials without the tip blowing off or balling up unexpectedly. It holds a point better than almost any other tungsten type in DC applications, giving you precise control over the weld puddle.

These 7-inch electrodes fit standard TIG torches and are compatible with standard collets and gas lenses. They are the preferred choice for DC Electrode Negative (straight polarity) welding. If you are looking for deep penetration and a narrow heat-affected zone on mild steel or stainless, this is the rod to use. Keep your arc tight and your welds clean with the industry's most trusted electrode type.

Grinding Tips

For the best results, grind your thoriated tungsten lengthwise (parallel to the rod) to a tapered point. This ensures the arc flows straight off the tip and doesn't wander. Because this is a 1/8" rod, you can grind a longer taper for better visibility and arc control in tight corners.

Additional Information
Diameter:3.2mm (1/8")
Tungsten Type:Thoriated
Used To Weld:Steel and Stainless
Color Code:Red
AWS Classification:EWTh-2
Length:7 in
Material Composition:98% Tungsten, 2% Thorium Oxide
Welding Current:DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative)
Packaging Description:10 pcs in a pack
Used To Weld?:Steel and Stainless

INCLUDED

  • 10 x 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes (1/8" x 7")
  • Protective Storage Case

APPLICATIONS

  • DC TIG welding of Carbon Steel
  • Stainless Steel fabrication
  • Nickel Alloy welding
  • Titanium welding
  • Pipe and pressure vessel welding
  • General industrial fabrication

FAQ

The color code is Red.

It is not typically recommended. Thoriated tungsten is designed for DC welding. Aluminum usually requires AC welding, where Pure (Green) or Zirconiated (White) or Lanthanated (Blue/Gold) tungstens perform better as they handle the balling required for AC.

Yes, it contains thorium oxide, which is slightly radioactive. While safe to handle and weld with, care must be taken during grinding to avoid inhaling the dust. Use a dust collector or respirator.

A 1/8" (3.2mm) thoriated tungsten can typically handle between 150 and 250 amps on DCEN, depending on the gas cup size and cooling.

Grind the tip to a sharp point, with the grind marks running lengthwise (parallel to the electrode). For higher amperages, you may slightly blunt the very tip to prevent it from breaking off.

Thoriated is the traditional standard and many welders prefer its specific arc characteristics and starting reliability on DC. However, Lanthanated is a non-radioactive alternative that offers very similar performance.

EW stands for Electrode Tungsten, Th stands for Thoriated, and 2 indicates the approximate percentage of thorium oxide (2%).

No, thoriated tungsten is designed to maintain a sharp point during DC welding. If it balls up, you are likely using AC or have the polarity reversed (DCEP).