Welding Rod Number Meaning: How to Read the Code
When you pick up a stick electrode, those numbers stamped on the side actually reveal a lot about how the rod performs, what kind of welds it’s best for, and which machines it works with. Once you understand what the numbers mean, choosing the right rod for each project gets a whole lot easier.
Whether you’re welding up a trailer frame in your garage or repairing a gate hinge, knowing how to read those numbers helps you get better welds and avoid unnecessary frustration.
Breaking Down the Numbers on Welding Rods
Most stick welding rods follow a simple numbering system — like 6013, 7018, or 6010 — and each part of the number tells you something specific.
The first two digits show the tensile strength of the weld. For example, 6013 means 60,000 PSI strength, while 7018 gives you 70,000 PSI.
The third digit tells you the welding position. A “1” means you can weld in any position — flat, vertical, overhead, and horizontal. A “2” means it’s best for flat and horizontal welds only.
The fourth digit points to the flux type and current compatibility, which affects how the arc runs, how deep the weld penetrates, and whether it works on AC, DC, or both.
Many hobby welders say that once they learned how to read these numbers, picking the right rod for each job got much simpler.
How Different Rods Handle in Real-World Welding
Not all rods weld the same way. Based on welder feedback from forums and shop videos, these differences really show up once you start running a bead.
6013 produces a soft, stable arc with low spatter, making it great for clean welds on thinner metal.
6010 has a much more aggressive arc with deep penetration, which makes it ideal for pipe welding and structural work where strength is critical.
7018 is known for its stable arc and strong, smooth welds with minimal porosity. It’s a favorite for structural builds that require maximum strength and clean weld quality.
Knowing how each rod behaves saves time and helps prevent common issues, especially when working with thinner materials or welding out of position.
Matching Welding Rods to Your Machine
Your welding machine plays a big role in which rods you can use. Based on manufacturer specs and welder reviews, here’s a simple way to match rods to machines:
6010 usually requires DC machines with high open-circuit voltage.
6013 is more flexible and runs well on both AC and DC machines, which makes it popular for home garages and smaller shops.
7018 works on AC or DC, but it performs best on machines with steady amperage control.
If you’re welding at home with a basic AC stick welder, 6013 or AC-rated 7018 rods will give you fewer headaches and better results.
How Easy Different Rods Are to Learn
Each welding rod comes with its own learning curve. Based on beginner welder feedback, here’s how they usually stack up:
6013 is one of the easiest rods for beginners. It starts easily, runs smooth, and forgives small mistakes.
7018 takes a bit more practice. You need to control heat, angle, and travel speed carefully, but the welds turn out excellent once you master it.
6010 is the most challenging. It demands steady hands and more skill, especially for open-root welds or vertical work. That said, it’s essential for anyone planning to do pipeline or advanced structural welding.
Many welders start with 6013 to build confidence before moving on to more advanced rods like 7018 or 6010.
Conclusion
Those numbers stamped on welding rods aren’t just there for looks — they’re your cheat sheet to picking the right rod for your project, skill level, and machine. Whether you’re welding thin sheet metal, fixing lawn equipment, or tackling heavy structural work, understanding these numbers helps you get better welds with less frustration.
If you’re just starting out or using a simple AC welder in your garage, 6013 is a great rod to begin with. As your skills grow, adding rods like 7018 and 6010 will open up more options for tougher projects. Each one has its place — and knowing when to use which rod is a big part of becoming a better welder.
Related Articles You Might Find Helpful
Here are a few more articles to help you sharpen your welding skills:
