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RG45116 - R45 Copper Coated Mild Steel Gas Welding Rod 1/16" (10lb Tube)

Packaging: 10lb tube
$6.24/lb $39.00/10lb tube only $3.90/lbSave 37%

In stock

OVERVIEW

Premium R45 Mild Steel Gas Welding Rods

The R45 Copper Coated Gas Welding Rod is a high-quality filler metal designed specifically for the oxy-fuel welding of low carbon steels. Conforming to AWS A5.2 R45 specifications, this general-purpose rod is engineered to produce sound, porosity-free welds with a minimum tensile strength of 45,000 psi. The 1.6mm (1/16 inch) diameter is particularly well-suited for welding thin-gauge sheet metal, small diameter pipe, and wrought iron, offering the operator precise control over the heat input and weld puddle.

Manufactured with a uniform copper coating, these rods are protected against oxidation and corrosion during storage, ensuring that the filler metal remains clean and ready for use. This coating also facilitates smoother feeding and flow characteristics during the welding process. The low carbon chemistry of the R45 grade ensures that the resulting weld deposit is highly ductile and possesses excellent machinability, making it an ideal choice for applications where post-weld grinding or machining is required. Unlike brazing alloys, this rod is designed for fusion welding where the base metal is melted; however, it requires no flux when applied to clean, rust-free steel, simplifying the workflow for operators.

Packaged in a durable 10lb tube, this product is optimized for maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) environments as well as automotive restoration shops. It performs exceptionally well in all welding positions, provided the oxy-acetylene flame is neutral. Whether used for repairing steel plates, joining pipe sections, or fabricating ornamental ironwork, the R45 rod delivers consistent mechanical properties and a visually appealing bead profile. It is the industry standard for non-critical structural repairs where ease of use and reliable fusion are paramount.

Technical Characteristics:

  • AWS Classification: A5.2 R45
  • Material: Copper-Coated Low Carbon Steel
  • Diameter: 1.6mm (approx. 1/16")
  • Tensile Strength: 45,000 psi minimum
  • Elongation: 25% in 2 inches (typical)
Additional Information
Grade:R45
Diameter:1.6mm (1/16")
Packaging:10 lb Tube
Packaging Description:10lb tube
Polarity:Oxy-Fuel
Weld Process:Brazing
Material Composition:Copper-Coated Low Carbon Steel
AWS Classification:A5.2 R45
Tensile Strength:45,000 psi
Rod Length:36 inches
Applications:Sheet Metal, Pipe Welding, Automotive Repair
Brand:Generic
AWS Spec:A5.2

INCLUDED

  • 10 lb Tube of 1.6mm (1/16") R45 Steel Gas Welding Rods

APPLICATIONS

  • Oxy-fuel welding of mild steel and wrought iron
  • Automotive body panel repair and restoration
  • Small diameter pipe and tubing fabrication
  • Maintenance and repair of steel castings
  • Ornamental ironwork and hobbyist projects

FAQ

No, flux is generally not required when welding clean mild steel with R45 rods using a neutral oxy-acetylene flame. However, if the base metal is dirty or if you are brazing, flux may be necessary.

While R45 is designed for oxy-fuel welding, it can technically be used for TIG welding mild steel in a pinch. However, ER70S-6 is the preferred rod for TIG as it contains deoxidizers that R45 lacks.

The R45 classification indicates a minimum tensile strength of 45,000 psi, making it suitable for general purpose repairs on low carbon steel.

No, the core is low carbon steel. It has a thin copper coating to prevent rust and improve shelf life, but the deposit is steel.

This rod is designed for Oxy-Fuel welding, typically using Oxygen and Acetylene. It is not designed for MIG welding with shielding gas.

This specific product is 1.6mm, which is approximately 1/16 of an inch.

R45 is not recommended for cast iron. You should use a nickel-based rod or a specialty cast iron rod for those applications to prevent cracking.

The count varies by length and exact density, but a 10lb tube of 1/16" rods typically contains several hundred rods.