Knowing which welding method to use can make a big difference in the quality of your work — whether you’re fabricating metal furniture, fixing a trailer, or just learning the ropes in your garage. Each technique comes with its own strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. Some are better suited for beginners, while others offer…
Welding joins two pieces of metal together by using heat, pressure, or both. It’s one of the most essential techniques in metalwork. From repairing a cracked lawnmower frame to building massive steel structures, welding makes it all possible and keeps industries running. Here’s a clear look at what welding is, how it works, and where…
Last Updated: January 2026 Spend enough time in a welding shop and you’ll hear plenty of mixed advice about stainless filler rods. 308 and 309 welding rods look almost identical, run on the same machines, and often sit side by side on the rack. That similarity makes a lot of welders treat them as interchangeable…
When you’re working with aluminum, 6061 often ends up being the go-to choice. It’s strong, versatile, easy to weld, and machines well. But once you start ordering material, you’ll likely see two common options: 6061 T6 and 6061 T651. At first glance, they seem almost identical. However, there are important differences that can affect your…
Last Updated: January 2026 If you’ve ever picked up a box of electrodes and wondered what those numbers actually tell you, you’re not alone. The welding rod number meaning system looks technical at first, but it’s there to help—not confuse. Once you know how to read it, choosing the right rod gets quicker and a…
Last Updated: January 2026 The 6013 welding rod doesn’t get talked about as much as rods like 6010 or 7018, but it shows up in a lot of real jobs for good reason. It’s easy to run, forgiving on technique, and works especially well on lighter steel where clean beads matter more than deep penetration….
Polarity plays a major role in how your stick welds turn out. The right setting gives you solid penetration, clean welds, and better control of the puddle. The wrong one leaves you fighting spatter, poor fusion, and weak welds that won’t hold up under stress. Here’s a clear breakdown of which polarity works best, depending…
Last Updated: January 2026 The 6010 welding rod is one of those electrodes most welders hear about early, but many don’t fully understand until they run it. It’s known for deep penetration, a hard-driving arc, and the ability to weld through rust, paint, and poor surface prep. At the same time, it’s also one of…
When you’re learning stick welding, you’ll quickly run into 6011 and 6013 rods. They’re two of the most common choices, but they behave very differently once you strike an arc. Choosing the right one can save you a lot of frustration, depending on what you’re welding and how much prep work you’re dealing with. This…
Last Updated: January 2026 Welding cast iron is one of those jobs where rod choice matters more than almost anything else. Cast iron is brittle, sensitive to heat, and quick to crack if stressed the wrong way. Using the right welding rod helps control cracking, improve fusion, and make repairs that actually last after the…