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T3167GT2 - 3/16" Red Tungsten Electrodes - 2% Thoriated for DC TIG Welding

Packaging: 5 per pak
$271.44/pak $151.40/5 per pak only $30.28/pakSave 89%

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OVERVIEW

The Old Reliable for High-Amp DC TIG

If you are burning heavy plate and need an electrode that can take the heat, the 3/16" Red (2% Thoriated) Tungsten is your go-to choice. For decades, "Red Tungsten" has been the favorite in the welder's toolbox for a reason: it just works. Whether you are walking the cup on heavy-wall pipe or laying down structural root passes, this electrode gives you the crisp, stable arc you need to produce X-ray quality welds. The 2% thorium formula helps the electrode start fast without sticking, and it holds a sharp point way longer than pure or zirconiated options.

At 3/16 of an inch thick, this isn't your average hobbyist rod. This is a heavy-duty stick built for high-amperage welding. You can crank up your machine to 250-400+ amps (depending on your gas coverage and cup size) without the tip melting off or spitting tungsten into your puddle. It is designed specifically for DC Electrode Negative (DCEN) welding on mild steel and stainless steel. It provides deep penetration and a focused arc cone that lets you control the puddle exactly how you want it.

When prepping this tungsten, remember to grind your taper longitudinally (lengthwise) to keep the arc focused. Because it holds its shape so well, you will spend less time at the grinder and more time under the hood. Just keep in mind that red tungsten contains thorium, so don't breathe in the grinding dust—wear your respirator. If you need a rod that offers consistent starts, handles massive heat, and produces clean welds on steel, this 3/16" thoriated tungsten is the professional standard.

Additional Information
Tungsten Type:Thoriated
Diameter:4.8mm (3/16")
Used To Weld:Steel and Stainless
Color Code:Red
AWS Classification:EWTh-2
Length:7 in
Material Composition:98% Tungsten, 2% Thorium Oxide
Current Type:DC (Direct Current)
Welding Position:All Positions
Packaging Description:5 per pak
Used To Weld?:Steel and Stainless

INCLUDED

  • 10 x 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes (3/16" Diameter x 7" Length)
  • Protective Storage Case

APPLICATIONS

  • Heavy structural steel fabrication
  • Industrial pipe welding (carbon and stainless)
  • Pressure vessel manufacturing
  • Aerospace and defense components
  • High-amperage DC TIG welding
  • Maintenance and repair of heavy machinery

FAQ

This tungsten is classified as EWTh-2, which indicates it is a 2% Thoriated tungsten electrode.

Red (Thoriated) tungsten is best suited for DC welding on Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Nickel Alloys, and Titanium.

Yes, thorium is a low-level radioactive material. It is safe to handle, but you should use dust extraction or wear a respirator when grinding the tip to avoid inhaling the dust.

It is not recommended. Aluminum is typically welded with AC, and thoriated tungsten does not ball up well for AC welding. You should use Pure (Green) or Zirconiated (White) for aluminum.

For DCEN welding, a 3/16" (4.8mm) electrode typically operates effectively between 250 and 400 Amps, depending on the gas cup size and gas flow.

Grind the tip to a sharp point, with the grind marks running lengthwise (parallel to the rod). This ensures a stable, focused arc.

The 3/16" diameter is a large size used for thick materials that require high heat input and high amperage that smaller electrodes cannot withstand.

No, these are typically sold as standard 7-inch rods that require grinding by the user to suit their specific application.