What do the E6010, E6011, E7018 electrode codes mean?

SMAW welding electrodes are coded according to CSA W48 (identical to AWS A5.1). Let's take E7018 as an example:

Code meaning:

• E: Electrode
• 70: Minimum tensile strength: 70,000 PSI (490 MPa)
• 1: Welding position — 1 = all positions, 2 = flat/horizontal only
• 8: Coating type and polarity — basic, low hydrogen, DC+/AC

Common electrodes:

• E6010: 60,000 PSI, all positions, cellulosic sodium coating, DC+ only. Deep penetration. Ideal for pipe and roots
• E6011: 60,000 PSI, all positions, cellulosic potassium coating, DC+/AC. Similar to E6010 but works on AC
• E7018: 70,000 PSI, all positions, basic low hydrogen coating, DC+/AC. Widely used in structural work and frames. It must be baked at the temperature and for the duration stated on the manufacturer's data sheet if the packaging has been opened (and as re-stated in the company's WPS)
• E7024: 70,000 PSI, flat position only, rutile (iron powder) coating, high deposition. Very productive for flat fillet welds