Instructions and highlights for:
Storage and drying of Electrodes
The coated arc electrodes (SMAW) must be stored in proper conditions to perform a quality and reliable welding connector.
Prolonged exposure to environmental conditions Coatings Welding electrodes absorb moisture.
Electrodes with too much moisture can cause cracks or pores in the weld seam. Also, the behavior of the electrode during welding may be adversely affected.
If you have experienced unexplained cracking problems, or if welding operations have deteriorated, it could be due to poor storage methods or unsuitable re-drying procedures.
Follow the simple recommendations for storage, reducing moisture exposure and re-drying techniques to ensure the highest quality, and best behavior of your electrodes.
This does not apply to electrodes with a cellulose coating! Do not re-dry on cellulose electrodes.
Recommended Temperature and drying time:
| Type of electrode / coating | coating Re-drying conditions | Remarks |
| Cellulose E6010 / 6011 | Do not re-dry at all !!! | It is recommended to keep in conditions that prevent the electrode from drying out |
| Rutile E6013 | 1 hour at 80 ºС | It is recommended to do re-drying and the welding is accompanied by over-adjustments and noises |
| High-yield rutile E7024 | 1 hours at 150-200 ºC | |
| Basic EXX18, EXX16 | 2 hours at 250-400 ºС | See the notes below * |
| Basic EXX18-H4R | ||
| Basic stainless steel or rutile E3XX |
* In welding with basic electrodes, re-drying should be performed.
* Basic electrodes supplied in a vacuum package cannot be used within 4 hours from the moment the package is opened, and the vacuum is broken.
* In welding critical constructions, it is recommended to perform re-drying even if the electrodes are supplied in a vacuum package.
* Basic electrode with an “R” extension according to the AWS standard, with high resistance to moisture absorption and supplied in a vacuum package. After opening the package and breaking the vacuum, the electrodes cannot be used without drying for 9 hours.
* Do not re-dry more than twice.
