Canadian
Canadian owned and operated
Welders Helper
cart
Canada’s Premier Online Welding Supply Shop!
Awaiting product image

64022400 - 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes 3/32" x 7" (Red) - 10 Pack

Packaging: 10 pcs in a pack
$39.69/pak $28.35/10 pcs in a pack only $28.35/pakSave 29%

In stock

SKU: VAN6402-2400 Categories: ,

OVERVIEW

Industrial Grade 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes (EWTh-2)

The 2% Thoriated Tungsten electrode, identified by its red color code, remains the most widely used tungsten electrode in industrial manufacturing and fabrication sectors for Direct Current (DC) welding. This 3/32" (2.4mm) diameter variant is engineered to meet AWS classification EWTh-2 standards, containing a nominal 2% thorium oxide (ThO2) dispersed evenly throughout the tungsten matrix. This composition significantly enhances the electrode's electron emission qualities, allowing for reliable arc starting and a higher current-carrying capacity compared to pure tungsten alternatives.

For industrial applications involving carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, and titanium, thoriated tungsten provides exceptional stability. The electrode operates well below its melting temperature, which minimizes the rate of consumption and reduces the frequency of regrinding required during long production runs. This durability translates to reduced downtime and lower consumable costs in high-volume welding environments. The 3/32" diameter is a versatile size, capable of handling a broad amperage range suitable for both thin-gauge sheet metal and medium-thickness plate welding.

Safety and Handling: As thoriated tungsten contains low-level radioactive material, proper safety protocols must be observed during grinding. It is recommended to use a dedicated grinder with dust extraction capabilities to prevent the inhalation of grinding dust. Despite the emergence of rare-earth alternatives, the performance characteristics of 2% thoriated tungsten continue to make it a preferred specification for critical welds in aerospace, petrochemical, and structural applications where arc consistency is paramount.

Technical Specifications

  • Classification: AWS A5.12 EWTh-2 / ISO 6848 WT20
  • Diameter: 3/32 inch (2.4 mm)
  • Length: 7 inches (175 mm)
  • Primary Oxide: Thorium Oxide (1.7%–2.2%)
  • Recommended Polarity: DC Electrode Negative (DCEN)
Additional Information
Diameter:2.5mm, 3/32" (2.4mm)
AWS Classification:EWTh-2
Color Code:Red
Length :7" (175mm)
Material Composition:2% Thorium Oxide, 98% Tungsten
Welding Current:DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative)
----- new values below ----
AWS Classification:EWTh-2
Color Code:Red
Length:7" (175mm)
Material Composition:98% Tungsten, 2% Thorium Oxide
Welding Current:DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative)
Tungsten Type:Thoriated
Used To Weld:Steel and Stainless
Diameter:3/32" (2.4mm)

INCLUDED

  • 10 x 2% Thoriated Tungsten Electrodes (Red, 3/32" x 7")
  • Plastic Storage Case

APPLICATIONS

  • DC TIG welding of Carbon Steel
  • DC TIG welding of Stainless Steel (304, 316, etc.)
  • Fabrication of Nickel Alloys and Titanium
  • Pipe and tube welding
  • Automotive exhaust and chassis fabrication
  • Aerospace and precision structural welding

FAQ

Red tungsten (2% Thoriated) is primarily used for DC welding of mild steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, and titanium. It is not recommended for AC welding of aluminum.

Yes, it contains a small amount of thorium, which is a radioactive element. While the radiation level is low, it is important to use dust extraction or wear a respirator when grinding the electrodes to avoid inhaling the dust.

No, thoriated tungsten is designed for DC welding. For aluminum (AC welding), you should use Pure (Green), Zirconiated (White), or a multi-mix rare earth tungsten like E3 (Purple) or Lanthanated (Blue/Gold).

A 3/32" (2.4mm) thoriated tungsten electrode typically operates best between 150 and 250 amps on DCEN, depending on the gas cup size and cooling.

Grind the tungsten lengthwise to a sharp point. The taper length should be approximately 2 to 2.5 times the diameter of the electrode for optimal arc stability.

EWTh-2 is the AWS (American Welding Society) classification. 'E' stands for Electrode, 'W' for Tungsten (Wolfram), 'Th' for Thorium, and '2' indicates the approximate percentage of thorium oxide (2%).

The thorium oxide has a high melting point and helps the electrode emit electrons at lower temperatures. This prevents the tip from overheating and melting (balling) as quickly as pure tungsten.

Related products