Stick welding electrodes have a flux coating that picks up moisture from the air, and Singapore’s humid climate makes this worse. Damp electrodes are one of the most common causes of poor welds.
What happens when electrodes get damp
- Porosity (gas holes) in the weld
- An unstable arc and extra spatter
- Hydrogen cracking, especially with low-hydrogen electrodes on thicker steel
1. Store them in a sealed electrode storage tube
An electrode storage tube keeps rods sealed from moisture and protects the flux coating from knocks. It is ideal for carrying electrodes around the yard, so welders only take out what they need.
2. Use an electrode dryer oven
An electrode dryer keeps rods warm and dry at the workstation. Low-hydrogen electrodes often need re-baking and holding at a set temperature; always follow the electrode maker’s data sheet.
3. Good habits on site
- Keep electrodes in their sealed packaging until needed.
- Close the storage tube or dryer lid after taking rods out.
- Never leave electrodes on the floor, near water or outdoors overnight.
- Throw away rods with cracked, chipped or swollen flux.
4. Look after the rest of the setup
Dry electrodes still need a good connection. Check that your electrode holder grips firmly and your earth clamp is clean and tight.
Stick welding supplies in Singapore
Fong Yung Industries LLP supplies electrode storage tubes, electrode dryers, holders and earth clamps in the EVO-Arc range, plus the MMA 200 stick welding machine. Browse the range or request a quote.