TTU949 - RG45 Mild Steel Oxy-Acetylene Welding Rod 1/8" (1lb Tube)

High-Quality RG45 Gas Welding Rod for Mild Steel Applications

The RG45 Gas Welding Rod is a premium-grade, copper-coated mild steel filler metal designed specifically for oxy-fuel gas welding. Manufactured to conform to the AWS A5.2 R45 classification, this rod is the industry standard for joining low carbon steel, wrought iron, and mild steel plates. The 3.2mm (1/8") diameter offers a versatile deposition rate, making it suitable for bridging gaps in fit-ups or building up surfaces on medium-to-heavy gauge materials. Unlike arc welding electrodes, the RG45 is formulated to perform in the reducing atmosphere of a neutral gas flame, producing sound, porosity-free welds without the absolute necessity of flux in most clean steel applications.

Metallurgically, the RG45 rod is composed of low carbon steel with a minimum tensile strength of approximately 45,000 psi. This ensures that the weld deposit remains ductile and highly machinable, which is critical for applications where post-weld processing or shaping is required. The rod features a high-quality copper coating. This coating is not merely aesthetic; it serves a crucial functional purpose by protecting the steel core from oxidation and corrosion during storage. Furthermore, the copper layer facilitates smoother handling and feeding through the welder's fingers, reducing drag and allowing for precise manipulation of the molten puddle.

This product is supplied in a convenient 1lb tube, making it an excellent choice for maintenance departments, educational institutions, and small fabrication shops that require high-quality consumables without the logistical burden of bulk packaging. The 36-inch length is the standard for manual gas welding, ensuring the operator can maintain a safe distance from the high-temperature zone while having sufficient material for continuous weld beads. Whether used for repairing vintage machinery, fabricating steel structures, or educational training on puddle control, the RG45 rod delivers consistent and reliable performance.

Technical Specifications and Usage

The chemical composition is tightly controlled to ensure consistent melting points and flow characteristics. It is important to note that while RG45 is a steel rod, it is distinct from TIG welding rods such as ER70S-6. TIG rods contain higher levels of silicon and manganese to act as deoxidizers in the electric arc environment. RG45 relies on the gas flame for protection and is optimized for the slower heating and cooling cycles associated with oxy-acetylene welding, promoting excellent fusion and bead appearance.