Which Welding Wire is Suitable for Thick Iron? Here's the Explanation

Selecting the right welding wire significantly impacts the strength of joints in steel construction, especially when working with thick steel. Steel with large thicknesses requires welding wire with high penetrating power, good arc stability, and strong penetration.

To achieve optimal welding results, here is a complete explanation of the types of welding wire suitable for thick steel.

1. E7018 Welding Wire (Low Hydrogen)
This type is one of the most recommended for thick steel because:

• It has deep penetration and strong welds.
• Reduces the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking.
• It is suitable for medium to high carbon steel.

Stable for welding large structures such as H-Beams, WFs, thick plates, and heavy construction.

Recommended use:

• Steel ≥ 10 mm thick, especially for structural construction.

2. E6013 Welding Wire
Although often used for general work, E6013 can still be used for thick steel as long as a high current is used.

Advantages:

• The arc is stable and easy to ignite.
• Suitable for vertical or horizontal welding positions.
• Smoother results, although penetration is not as deep as E7018.

Recommended use:

• Steel 6–12 mm thick for non-structural or finishing work.

3. Flux-Cored Welding Wire (FCAW)
When using a semi-automatic welding machine, flux-cored welding wire is ideal for thick steel.

Advantages:

• Very strong penetration.
• High productivity.
• Can be used for outdoor welding.
• Suitable for large construction projects.

Recommended use:

• Steel plate and thick profiles for large-scale projects.

4. Large Diameter MIG (Solid Wire) Welding Wire
For MIG machines, using wire with a diameter of ≥ 1.0 mm provides optimal results on thick steel.

Advantages:

• Fast and clean welding.
• Strong penetration.
• Minimal spatter.

Recommended use:

• Heavy steel fabrication, industrial, and construction work.
• Tips for Selecting Welding Wire for Thick Steel
• Choose high-penetration welding wire such as E7018 or FCAW.
• Adjust the wire diameter to the thickness of the steel.
• Use high current to ensure the weld doesn't just stick to the surface.
• Make sure the work area is free of dirt and rust.
• Use a welding machine that meets the power standards.

For thick steel, the best welding wire is E7018, followed by flux-cored, large-diameter MIG, and E6013 for general use. Choosing the right wire will ensure a stronger, safer, and more durable connection.

Need Quality Welding Wire for Your Project?
PT Intisumber Bajasakti provides various types of welding wire for small to large-scale construction needs.

📞 Tel: 021-66675999
🌐 Web: intisumberbajasakti.com
✉️ Email: info@intisumberbajasakti.com

Back to List