Welding electrodes?

[Bigjohnny5]

i have now received my thermal arc 175se so far very pleased I must confess though in my haste to give it a try I went into my local tool station to pick up some rods I did manage to use them but it was difficult to hold an arc constantly
I have done some searching with regards to what are the recommended brands of rods to use I was looking to try some siftrode rods on eBay but there is very little information on them has anyone any recommendations on what rods I should try and also where to go for them ?
I don't really want to be paying £40 a pack but I still would like a decent rod
I'm near margate Kent and I don't think there are any local welding supplies near me so it may have to be online supplies

 

[Bigjoe]

Try pg merlin or dj invicta at lakesview business Park in Hersden, they carry various brands and often have offers,or have a look at weldequip above or eBay for mail order

 

[Arclikeharrypotter]

If you're looking for something economical then I can recommend, murex 6013, bohler aws, oerlikon overcord e. In the order is my preference. The murex white box 6013 are actually a really good electrode, think last time I bought them they were maybe 15 plus vat.

 

[zzr1200]

I've never had a problem with these people, (apart from never having enough money to spend with them).
A first class supplier of first class products, at very reasonable prices




http://www.rapidwelding.com

 

[Bill Edwards]

Murex, Pheonix (my favorite), GYS, Bohler, ESAB won't let you down.

Avoid wasting money on Super6, Clarke, Parweld.

 

[sardine]

The problem with places like Tool station, Aldi ect is that they come from random suppliers, one batch may be OK, but the next junk.

 

[Bill Edwards]

Exactly.
That's why I strongly recommend going to one of the good brands listed above (there are more) where you don't pay all that much more but every rod is good, and requires the same settings and technique as the last one etc. It's worth the little extra for both learners, hobbyists and pros.
I have even known cheap rods where the damn thing changes partway through the same rod

 

[Mr shiney]

I use the stuff from BOC which is normally ESAB and MUREX. Always good results.