E6010 vs. E6011 Welding Rods – Key Differences

Stick welding (SMAW) is a widely-used process done through a welding rod. A welding rod or electrode provides electric current to the arc and is one of the most competent welding tools.The primary advantages of having the most delicate welding rod are its high efficacy, low sensitivity to corrosion, low price, no need for external gas, and easily changeable for different metals.

In the marketplace, numerous brands produce different kinds of welding rods, each claiming their product as perfect. A user can’t pick up the top one from the rush that improves their overall welding experience.Thus, after hordes of research and experiments, I realized that two products primarily surround the market. So, let’s discuss both to identify which one is best and why: 6010 vs. 6011 welding rods are compared!

E6010 vs. E6011 Welding Electrodes

To choose the welding rod, one needs to consider its tensile strength, type, thickness, polarity, and usefulness. Undoubtedly, 6010 and 6011 are sister rods performing remarkably in their way. Some of the key differences between 6010 and 6011 are listed below.

• Material: Both 6010 and 6011 are made of mild steel.
• Wire Coating:6010 is coated with high cellulose sodium. On the other hand, 6011 has high cellulose potassium coating.
• Welding Current: 6010 is only compatible with DC +, while 6011 works with AC, DC +, or DC -.
• Tensile Strength: 6010 has 78,000 (PSI) TS, and 6011 has 60,000(PSI) TS
• Yield Strength: 6010 has 60,000(PSI) YS, and 6011 has 48,000(PSI) YS.
• Elongation: Both offer 22 percent elongation in 2 inches.

But indeed, these rods do have some unique features which make them both different from each other. In this section, I will explain each welding rod along with facts, figures, and applications. So please don’t skip any part, and let’s flow!

E 6010 Welding Rod

E 6010 welding electrode is a fast freeze rod. What does that mean? Fast freezing technology helps the electrode in quicker cooling compared to other types. Consequently, it promotes faster welding. However, a professional can use this electrode like a pro; I don’t recommend it to amateurs. Shortly, 6010 is a high-yielding welding rod that comes with greater strength.

1: Rod Thickness

Usually, the thickness of a welding rod is chosen based on the metal width you desire to cut. If your metal is thin, then you should go for an electrode slightly bigger than it. For example, if the thickness of the material is 2.0 mm, you should weld it with a 2.5 mm welding electrode. I suggest you seek the manual for the best results.

2: Welding Polarity

The polarity of a welding rod is of great concern. In the general scenario, you need to understand that a circuit forms when you weld a material through an electrode.This electric circuit has negative (-) and positive (+) poles, called polarity. The welding polarity affects the efficiency and strength of your work.

The 6010 rods possess DCEP polarity, representing Direct Current Electrode Positive. In this manner, you have to connect the metal with a negative pole (-) of the source (which generates power) and a welding rod with a positive pole (+).

Based on polarity, the 6010 welding rod is less versatile than the 6011 because it is only compatible with direct current (DC). Also, 6010 requires more voltage than other kinds of rods. You have to maintain the power source throughout the process.

Use of E6010 Rod

As I said before, E 6010 utilizes direct current only, which results in deeper penetration than other rods. Thus, this welding electrode is suitable for overhead plate welding.

It is one of the most challenging welding positions, in which you can arc from the inner side of a joint. Due to deep penetration, you can weld surfaces covered with grease, dust or paint, etc.

E 6011 Welding Rod

The 6011 electrode is also a fast-freezing rod that works more quickly. It is most commonly used for pipe welding. Compared to 6010, I like the smaller pool of 6011 that facilitates easy cleaning.The main advantage you get with 6011 is excellent compatibility. It can run on direct current (DC) and alternate current (AC).

1: Rod Thickness

As you know, welding electrodes come in various sizes; each is appropriate for different stock widths. The generally used rod sizes are 1/8, 5/32, and 3/32 inches. To work on deep penetration, you should go for a thicker size. Again, you should seek a manual or professional welder to get the most satisfactory settings for your work.

In other words, lightweight metals are weldable with thin rods, while galvanized or deeper surfaces require thicker ones. Please never go for a 5/32 inches rod unless you’ve to work with one of the heaviest metals. In my work experience, I found 1/8 and 3/32 more compatible diameters.

2: Welding Polarity

In the game of polarity, 6011 is the winner. It is compatible with any polarity: direct current using a negative pole and alternating current using a positive pole.

In most cases (like arc welding), the direct current is used, but few exceptions require a positive electrode. So, in that sense, 6011 works, but 6010 does not! Plus, 6011 also works with a cracker box, a premium machine for handling dual polarities.

Use of E6011 Rod

As discussed, the 6011 rod is also compatible with alternating current, making it more versatile. It helps weld greasy and rusty surfaces because of suitable penetration.

Over that, I found it great for cars, engines, and even farm apparatus. In comparison with 6010, it is not good enough for pristine metals.

Which One Is Better?

The 6010 electrode boasts maximum yield with greater tensile strength than E6011. It is more efficient and facilitates deeper penetration, making welding smoother and faster.

On the other hand, the 6011 stick can deal with dual polarities, in case you’ve to work on alternating current. Thus, it is more versatile. You need to address your type of work; only then you’ll be able to get the best for you.I hope reading this article has helped you to understand key differences between E6010 Vs. E6011 welding electrodes.Happy welding !

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