2% Thoriated Tungsten Rods (Electrodes)

2% thoriated tungsten electrodes (RED) (AWS classification EWTh-2) contain a minimum of 97.30% tungsten and 1.70 to 2.20% thorium. They are the most commonly used electrodes today and are preferred for their longevity and ease of use. Thorium increases the electron emission qualities of the electrode, which improves arc starts and allows for a higher current carrying capacity. This electrode operates far below its melting temperature, which results in a considerably lower rate of consumption and eliminates arc wandering for greater stability. It also features a lower level of weld contamination than other electrodes.

Unlike pure tungsten, these electrodes are only for specialty type AC welding (thin gauge aluminum or materials less than .060-in.), but they are exceptional for DC electrode negative or straight polarity on carbon and stainless steel, nickel and titanium applications.

During manufacturing, thorium is evenly dispersed throughout the electrode. This evenness allows the electrode to maintain a sharpened edge-the ideal electrode shape for welding thin steel. Sharpening the electrode’s point, however, should be done with great care.

Warning: Thorium is radioactive. When grinding thoriated tungsten electrodes, use personal respiratory protection and control the dust at the source with exhaust ventilation.

Chemical Classification Symbol:               EWTh-2

American Welding Society Standard:       AWS A5.12M/A5.12:2009

Identifications Color:                                     Red

Standard Electrode Length:                         7 inch (~178 mm)

Diameter Size:                                                inches                                           millimeters

                                                               0.040                                    1.016

                                                               1/16                                      1.587

                                                               3/32                                      2.381

                                                               1/8                                        3.175

                                                               5/32                                      3.969

Also available:

Pure Tungsten Electrodes (Green)

1.5% Lanthanated Tungsten Electrodes (Gold)

2% Lanthanated Tungsten Electrodes (Blue)

2% Ceriated Tungsten Electrodes (Grey)