EXCU00000000620T00 - Exocor ERCu Deoxidized Copper TIG Filler Rod .062"

Technical Overview of Exocor ERCu Deoxidized Copper TIG Rod

The Exocor ERCu Deoxidized Copper TIG Rod is a premium-grade filler metal engineered for the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) of deoxidized copper and electrolytic tough pitch (ETP) copper. Manufactured to meet the rigorous standards of AWS A5.7 and ASME SFA 5.7, this consumable is classified as ERCu. It features a composition of 98% minimum copper, with small additions of deoxidizers such as phosphorus, silicon, tin, or manganese. These deoxidizing agents are critical in the metallurgy of copper welding, as they suppress the formation of gas porosity—a common defect when welding copper due to its high solubility of hydrogen and oxygen in the molten state.

One of the primary technical advantages of this alloy is its high electrical and thermal conductivity. While the addition of deoxidizers slightly reduces conductivity compared to pure oxygen-free copper, the ERCu classification maintains an IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard) rating sufficient for high-performance electrical bus bars, grounding straps, and conductive piping systems. The .062" (1.6mm) diameter offers precise control for thin-to-medium gauge applications, allowing for controlled heat input which is vital given copper's high thermal diffusivity.

In addition to joining copper alloys, the Exocor ERCu rod is frequently utilized for dissimilar metal joining, specifically for welding copper to mild steel. It is also an excellent choice for corrosion-resistant overlaying on steel surfaces, providing a protective barrier in specific chemical environments. The rod produces a deposit that is ductile and tough, ensuring mechanical integrity under stress. When used with 100% Argon or Helium-rich shielding gas mixtures, the rod exhibits excellent fluidity and wetting characteristics, minimizing the risk of lack of fusion defects. Industrial hygienists and welding engineers should note that while this rod minimizes porosity, proper base metal preparation (removal of oxides and oils) remains a critical process variable for achieving X-ray quality welds.