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TTU948 - R45 Oxy-Acetylene Mild Steel Welding Rod 2.5mm 1lb

Packaging: 1 lb tube
$10.68/lb $6.68/1 lb tube only $6.68/lbSave 37%

In stock

OVERVIEW

Versatile 2.5mm Oxy-Acetylene Steel Filler Rod

Rediscover the art of gas welding with our 2.5mm R45 Steel Gas Rods. Designed for the craftsman who values the control and aesthetics of the oxy-fuel process, these rods are the perfect companion for your torch kit. Gas welding remains a preferred method for many specific applications, such as thin-wall tubing in aviation or motorsports, wrought iron restoration, and bending/heating applications where electric arc welding might be too aggressive. This rod is formulated to flow easily under the heat of a neutral flame, creating a bond that is both strong and visually appealing.

The RG45 classification indicates a rod with a minimum tensile strength of 45,000 psi, which is perfectly matched for standard low-carbon steels. Because the rod is copper-coated, it arrives clean and ready to use, free from the surface rust that can cause inclusions or porosity in your weld. The 2.5mm (approximately 3/32") diameter is a versatile size; it is small enough to handle intricate detail work on thinner gauges but carries enough bulk to build up a bead on 1/8" plate or pipe. This balance makes it a "go-to" size for general shop inventory.

One of the major advantages of using R45 gas rods on mild steel is the lack of flux required. Unlike brazing or soldering, fusion welding with R45 relies on the purity of the steel and the shielding of the flame itself. This results in a clean operation with no slag to chip away afterwards—just a smooth, ripple-patterned weld that can be easily filed, ground, or machined. It is an excellent choice for automotive bodywork where the weld needs to be hammered and dollied flat, as the deposit remains soft and ductile.

This 1lb tube is perfect for hobbyists, students, and professionals who need high-quality filler metal without committing to a large bulk purchase. The 36-inch rods are easy to manipulate, allowing for precise feeding into the puddle. Whether you are fixing a garden gate, working on an exhaust system, or practicing your puddle control, these R45 rods provide the consistent performance required for successful oxy-acetylene welding.

Additional Information
Diameter:2.5mm (3/32")
Grade:R45
Packaging:1 lb Tube
Polarity:Oxy-Fuel
Weld Process:Oxy-Fuel
Brand:Generic
Material:Mild Steel
Length:36 in
AWS Classification:A5.2 R45
Coating:Copper Coated
Packaging Description:1 lb tube
AWS Spec:A5.2

INCLUDED

  • 1 lb Tube of 2.5mm R45 Gas Welding Rods (36" Length)

APPLICATIONS

  • General purpose fabrication and repair of mild steel components
  • Automotive body repairs, exhaust systems, and vintage car restoration
  • Maintenance welding on wrought iron fences, gates, and furniture
  • Joining low-carbon steel pipes and fittings
  • Artistic metalworking and sculpture using oxy-fuel torches
  • Educational training for gas welding puddle control

FAQ

No, flux is generally not required when gas welding mild steel with R45 rods. The flame itself provides protection, and the steel does not require the chemical cleaning action of flux like brazing does.

These rods have a diameter of 2.5mm, which is approximately 3/32 of an inch.

While it is physically possible to use R45 for TIG welding mild steel, it is not recommended. R45 is formulated for the slower cooling rates of gas welding. For TIG welding, an ER70S-6 rod is superior as it contains deoxidizers to prevent porosity.

The '45' in R45 stands for a minimum tensile strength of 45,000 psi.

No, R45 is for mild steel. Welding cast iron requires specialized high-nickel rods or cast iron gas rods and specific pre-heat/post-heat procedures.

The copper coating protects the steel rod from rusting while in storage and helps the rod slide smoothly if it were being fed, though for cut lengths it primarily serves as corrosion protection.

You need Oxygen and a fuel gas, typically Acetylene, to create the high-temperature flame required for fusion welding steel.