64023200 - 1/8" Red Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes (10-Pack)

Industry Standard Reliability for DC TIG Welding

The Vanguard 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrode (Red) is the definitive choice for professional welders requiring consistent performance in Direct Current (DC) applications. Identified by its red color code, this electrode conforms to the AWS classification EWTh-2, containing a minimum of 97.30% tungsten and 1.70% to 2.20% thorium oxide. This specific formulation has been the backbone of the TIG welding industry for decades, particularly favored for its operational reliability on carbon and stainless steels.

The inclusion of thorium oxide evenly dispersed throughout the electrode significantly enhances electron emission. For the industrial fabricator, this translates to effortless arc initiation and a highly stable arc column, even at lower amperages. The 1/8-inch (3.2mm) diameter is a versatile size, capable of handling a broad amperage range suitable for welding thicker wall tubing, structural brackets, and heavy-gauge sheet metal. Unlike pure tungsten, thoriated electrodes resist melting and spitting, ensuring that the weld pool remains free from tungsten inclusions—a critical factor in x-ray quality welds.

These electrodes are designed to be ground to a sharp point or a slightly blunted tip depending on the amperage load. They exhibit excellent resistance to contamination and maintain their geometry over extended welding cycles, reducing downtime for regrinding. While primarily designed for DC Electrode Negative (DCEN) welding, they provide the necessary heat control and penetration profile required for critical root passes and fill passes in pipe welding and pressure vessel fabrication.

Safety and Handling

Users should be aware that thorium is a low-level radioactive material. While the risk during welding is negligible, proper safety protocols should be followed during grinding. Use a dedicated grinder with dust extraction or wear appropriate respiratory protection to avoid inhaling tungsten dust.