Old Electrodes

[Vambo]

Hi

I have some old (10 yrs plus?) Bohler Phoenix 6013 electrodes and they now give off a light powder if you scrape the electrode across your hand. They still seem to weld OK but I am curious to know if they would have a use by date and if the coating is breaking down whether I should bin them or not.

Cheers, Vambo

 

[Mikes]

A lot of electrodes get a powdery dust on them. I normally just wipe it off with my glove and use them and never seems to cause a problem. Only throw them when the coating is coming off in pieces as then they do cause poor welds. Might be different if you were doing some critical component but for 'everyday' use they always seem fine.

 

[frank horton]

mine generally kept in the airing cupboard.....hahaha....
apart from the odd nagging... .no probs....

 

[Porkypine]

I'd use 'em without a second thought

 

[BrokenBiker]

My father has a box of super6 6013s in his shed...they only ever get used when he randomly remembers something needs sticking back together when im there and I haven't had any warning to take my gear so I use his rods and little 100 amp buzz box...the rods are probably the best parts of 16 years old and still run fine

 

[Puglet1]

I have used old and damp rods. I short out the electrode for a few seconds until the steam evaporates - then weld as usual.