S305401-022 - Hobart HB-28 .024" ER70S-6 Mild Steel MIG Wire 10lb Spool

Hobart HB-28 .024" ER70S-6 Solid MIG Welding Wire

The Hobart HB-28 .024" (0.6 mm) MIG welding wire is a premium copper-coated solid wire designed for general fabrication and manufacturing applications involving mild steel. Classified as an AWS ER70S-6 wire, the HB-28 is formulated with higher levels of silicon and manganese deoxidizers compared to standard ER70S-3 wires. This chemical composition provides the wire with excellent cleaning action, allowing it to produce sound, porosity-free welds even when the base material has light rust, mill scale, or oil present. This makes it an ideal choice for maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) environments where perfect surface preparation is not always feasible.

One of the standout technical characteristics of the HB-28 is its exceptional wetting ability. The molten weld pool flows out smoothly, creating a flat bead profile with uniform tie-ins at the toes of the weld. This is particularly critical in structural applications and pressure vessel fabrication where stress concentrations must be minimized. The copper coating on the wire serves a dual purpose: it enhances electrical conductivity for a stable arc and protects the wire from oxidation during storage. This coating also improves feedability through the liner and contact tip, reducing the risk of bird-nesting and arc instability.

Specifically engineered for thin-gauge materials, this 0.024-inch diameter wire is recommended for base metals ranging from 24 gauge (0.025 inches) to 18 gauge (0.050 inches). It operates effectively with both 100% Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Argon/CO2 shielding gas mixtures (typically 75/25). While CO2 provides deeper penetration, the Argon blend offers a smoother arc and reduced spatter, which is beneficial for finishing work. The HB-28 is versatile regarding wire feed speeds, maintaining stability from very slow to moderately fast rates, making it adaptable to various semi-automatic welding setups.

Industrial Applications:

• Pressure Vessel Fabrication
• Pipe and Shaft Build-up
• Automotive Body and Collision Repair
• Agricultural Equipment and Farm Implements
• General Light Fabrication