Weld Support Parts Blog

Tag: GMAW

  • ER80S-D2 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER80S-D2 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER80S-D2 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal

    ER80S-D2 MIG / GMAW filler metal is a low-alloy wire used where the weld deposit needs higher tensile strength and added molybdenum compared with general-purpose mild steel wires. It is typically considered for high-strength carbon and low-alloy steels, but it should not be treated as a default choice. The correct wire depends on the WPS, base metal, service conditions, joint design, shielding gas, and required mechanical properties.

    Use the WSP filler metal page as a starting point, not as a procedure approval. Confirm the classification, base metal, and service requirements before ordering wire or welding production parts.

    Key Takeaways

    • ER80S-D2 is a classification, not a blanket approval for all low-alloy jobs.
    • Confirm the WPS and code requirements first.
    • Verify the base metal grade and thickness range before selection.
    • Check shielding gas requirements and procedure parameters against the manufacturer data sheet.
    • When details are uncertain, mark them as Unknown (Verify) and stop before production welding.

    How to Use the Filler Metal Finder Page

    The Weld Support Parts filler metal finder page is useful when you are narrowing down a starting point for wire selection. It is not a substitute for code compliance or a qualified WPS. Use the page to compare the listed classification, process, and base material family, then move to the manufacturer data sheet and your internal welding documentation.

    Open the filler metal finder page and confirm these items:

    • Process: MIG / GMAW
    • Classification: ER80S-D2
    • AWS spec: AWS A5.28
    • Base material family: High-strength carbon and low-alloy steels

    If your application does not match those basic categories, do not assume the wire is suitable. Verify the actual specification or use a different filler metal family.

    Selection Checks Before Ordering

    Follow a short check-inspect-verify sequence before you place an order.

    • Check: The WPS for the required filler classification.
    • Inspect: The base metal identification on drawings, material certs, or job travelers.
    • Verify: The service condition. If the part sees elevated stress, impact loading, fatigue, or temperature exposure, review the weld metal requirements carefully.
    • Check: Shielding gas type and transfer mode requirements in the procedure.
    • Inspect: Wire diameter and spool size requirements. The listed sizes for this product family may include .030 in, .035 in, and .045 in, but confirm the exact size on the product page and data sheet before purchase.
    • Verify: The manufacturer name and data sheet for the exact wire you intend to use.

    If any item is missing, the correct action is not to guess. Mark the unknown detail as Unknown (Verify) and stop until the documentation is complete.

    Troubleshooting Common Selection Problems

    Problem: The wire classification looks right, but the job still fails review

    Check: Whether the WPS actually allows ER80S-D2 for that joint and base metal combination.

    Inspect: Any project-specific customer requirements, postweld heat treatment requirements, or impact testing requirements.

    Verify: Whether a different filler classification is required by code or contract. If the answer is unknown, treat it as Unknown (Verify) and route it to welding engineering or QA.

    Problem: The base metal is low-alloy, but the exact grade is not confirmed

    Check: Heat numbers, mill certs, or material markings.

    Inspect: Whether the material is actually carbon steel, HSLA, or another alloy family.

    Verify: The grade before using ER80S-D2 as a selection baseline. A general family match is not enough for production release.

    Problem: The filler metal finder page gives a starting point, but no final answer

    Check: The page description and classification fields.

    Inspect: The manufacturer data sheet for the specific wire brand.

    Verify: Procedure approval through your WPS, PQR, or responsible welding authority. Finder pages are support tools, not approval documents.

    Practical Purchasing Notes

    When buying ER80S-D2 wire, keep the ordering record tied to the actual job requirements. Do not order only from memory or from a past job that happened to use a similar classification.

    • Record the WPS number or internal reference.
    • Record the base metal grade and thickness.
    • Record the required wire diameter.
    • Record the shielding gas from the approved procedure.
    • Record the manufacturer and data sheet revision, if known. If unknown, mark Unknown (Verify).

    This avoids mix-ups between similar low-alloy wires and helps maintenance buyers prevent nonconforming stock from reaching the floor.

    Safety Notes

    • Do not weld from a filler metal description alone.
    • Review the WPS, SDS, and manufacturer data sheet before use.
    • Use proper ventilation and fume control for GMAW welding.
    • Verify storage condition and spool handling before loading wire.
    • If the job has critical service requirements, involve welding engineering or QA before starting production.

    FAQ

    Is ER80S-D2 a direct replacement for ER70S-2?

    No. They are not interchangeable by assumption. ER80S-D2 is a low-alloy wire with different intended mechanical property behavior. Check the WPS and verify the required classification before substituting anything.

    Can I use ER80S-D2 on any low-alloy steel?

    No. Base metal family alone is not enough. Inspect the exact grade and service condition, then verify that the procedure permits this wire.

    What should I do if the wire size is not listed in my internal notes?

    Check the product page and manufacturer data sheet. If the size still cannot be confirmed, treat it as Unknown (Verify) and do not order until confirmed.

    Is the filler metal finder page a final approval source?

    No. It is a starting point for selection only. Verify against the WPS, code requirements, and manufacturer documentation.

    Sources Checked

    Final note: ER80S-D2 is a useful starting point for higher-strength carbon and low-alloy welds, but the correct answer still comes from the procedure and the material documentation. Check the facts, inspect the material, and verify the approval path before welding.

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Weld Support Parts may earn from qualifying purchases.

  • ER70S-7 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-7 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-7 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal

    ER70S-7 MIG / GMAW filler metal is a solid wire option used on carbon steel and mild steel applications where extra deoxidizers may help with less-than-perfect surface condition. Treat it as a starting point only. Before ordering or welding, verify the WPS, code requirements, base metal grade, service conditions, and the manufacturer data sheet.

    Key Takeaways

    • ER70S-7 is a MIG / GMAW solid wire classification for carbon steel work.
    • It is often considered when the joint condition is not ideal and extra deoxidizers may be useful.
    • Do not use the classification alone as approval for a weld procedure.
    • Check the WPS, base metal, shielding gas, and wire diameter before setup.
    • If any technical detail is unclear, mark it as Unknown (Verify) and confirm it before release to production.

    What the filler metal finder page is for

    The ER70S-7 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal page is a selection starting point. It helps narrow the classification and common use case, but it does not guarantee procedure approval, code compliance, or fit for a specific job. Use it to begin the review, then verify the rest against your welding documentation and material controls.

    How to verify fit before welding

    Use a simple check sequence before the first arc.

    • Check the WPS: Confirm the procedure lists ER70S-7 or allows an equivalent classification. If the WPS is missing, stop and obtain it.
    • Inspect the base metal: Verify the base material grade, thickness, and joint design. If the grade is not confirmed, record it as Unknown (Verify).
    • Verify service conditions: Confirm whether the weld is for general fabrication, repair, structural work, or another service. Service exposure may change filler metal acceptability.
    • Inspect surface condition: Look for mill scale, rust, oil, moisture, paint, or shop contamination. ER70S-7 may be helpful in less-than-perfect surface condition, but it is not a substitute for cleaning.
    • Verify shielding gas: Check the gas type required by the WPS and wire manufacturer data sheet. If not documented, treat it as Unknown (Verify).
    • Confirm wire diameter: Common search terms include .030 in, .035 in, and .045 in, but do not assume any size is approved for your job. Verify the actual diameter allowed by procedure and feeder setup.

    Troubleshooting support checks

    If the weld does not run as expected, use a sequence that separates machine issues from material issues.

    1) Arc instability

    • Check contact tip size and condition.
    • Inspect wire feed path for blockage, liner wear, or drive roll slippage.
    • Verify shielding gas flow at the nozzle.
    • Confirm polarity and machine settings against the WPS.

    2) Excessive spatter

    • Check voltage and wire feed speed.
    • Inspect stickout length and gun angle.
    • Verify the work surface is clean enough for the selected wire.
    • Confirm the wire classification matches the application, not just the machine setting.

    3) Porosity or surface contamination

    • Inspect the joint for moisture, oil, rust, paint, and scale.
    • Check shielding gas coverage and leaks.
    • Verify the base metal condition before welding starts.
    • If contamination persists, stop and clean the joint rather than increasing heat to compensate.

    Selection notes for maintenance buyers and support teams

    For purchasing and stock review, ER70S-7 should be treated as one option within a controlled filler metal list. Do not assume it replaces ER70S-6, and do not assume it is interchangeable without procedure review. For shop support, keep the following records aligned:

    • wire classification
    • wire diameter
    • shielding gas requirement
    • WPS number or repair instruction
    • base metal grade
    • heat input or preheat limits, if applicable

    If any one of those points is missing, the correct status is Unknown (Verify).

    Practical check before release to production

    1. Verify the job traveler or WPS references ER70S-7 or an approved equivalent.
    2. Inspect the wire label and lot information before loading the feeder.
    3. Check that the gas bottle, regulator, and hoses match the required setup.
    4. Verify the coupon or first article weld meets the project criteria.
    5. Document any repairs, changes, or deviations before continuing production.

    Safety notes

    • Follow shop ventilation and fume control requirements.
    • Keep the work area dry and free from flammables.
    • Do not weld on unknown material without confirming the base metal and service condition.
    • Wear the proper PPE for MIG / GMAW work, including eye, face, hand, and body protection.
    • Do not rely on filler metal selection alone to solve fit-up, contamination, or machine setup problems.

    FAQ

    Is ER70S-7 the same as ER70S-6?

    No. They are different classifications. Do not assume interchangeability. Verify the WPS and manufacturer data sheet before substitution.

    Can ER70S-7 be used on dirty or scaled steel?

    It is often considered when extra deoxidizers may help with less-than-perfect surface condition, but it is not a substitute for cleaning. Inspect the joint and clean it as needed before welding.

    What wire diameter should I stock?

    Unknown (Verify). Common search terms include .030 in, .035 in, and .045 in, but the correct size depends on the WPS, machine setup, and job requirements.

    Does the filler metal page approve a weld procedure?

    No. The filler metal page is a starting point for selection only. Procedure approval still depends on the WPS, base metal, service conditions, and code requirements.

    Sources Checked

    Note: No additional product, price, certification, or compatibility claims were used. Any technical point not confirmed in the provided source material should be treated as Unknown (Verify).

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Weld Support Parts may earn from qualifying purchases.

  • ER70S-6 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-6 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-6 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal

    ER70S-6 MIG / GMAW filler metal is a common starting point for mild steel and carbon steel fabrication, repair, and general shop work. It is widely used because it supports routine production welding and maintenance work where good fit-up, practical deposition, and broad application matter. That said, the filler wire is only one part of the weld package. Final selection still depends on the WPS, base metal, service condition, joint design, shielding gas, and any code or customer requirements.

    Use the WSP filler metal page and the filler metal finder as selection references, not as automatic procedure approval. The product page for ER70S-6 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal and the filler metal finder are starting points for narrowing the choice. They do not replace a qualified WPS or manufacturer data sheet.

    Key Takeaways

    • ER70S-6 is a general-purpose solid wire for MIG / GMAW on mild steel and carbon steel.
    • Do not treat a filler metal listing as proof of WPS compliance.
    • Verify base metal grade, thickness, service environment, and shielding gas before ordering wire.
    • Match wire diameter to the application and the procedure. Common sizes may include .023 in, .030 in, .035 in, and .045 in, but the correct size is procedure-dependent and may be Unknown (Verify).
    • For critical work, confirm code requirements and manufacturer data sheets before welding.

    How to Use ER70S-6 as a Starting Point

    ER70S-6 is often selected when the job calls for a dependable solid wire for shop fabrication, repair work, and general maintenance on carbon steel. It is often considered alongside ER70S-3 and ER70S-2 during selection, but the right choice depends on cleaning level, deposition needs, and the procedure in use. Do not assume a wire works because it is common. Check the actual base metal and the weld requirement first.

    Check: the base material identification, thickness, and any drawing notes.
    Inspect: the joint condition, contamination, rust, mill scale, primer, and moisture.
    Verify: the WPS, shielding gas, polarity, and wire diameter before loading the feeder.

    Troubleshooting and Support Checks

    If the arc is unstable, the weld bead profile is inconsistent, or spatter is higher than expected, do not assume the wire is wrong. Start with the setup and consumable path.

    Check the gun liner, contact tip, drive roll tension, and wire feed path for drag or birdnesting risk.
    Inspect the shielding gas delivery, flow settings, leaks, and nozzle condition.
    Verify the wire diameter matches the drive roll groove, contact tip, and procedure requirements.

    If porosity appears, the first checks should be gas coverage, surface contamination, and stickout. If there is excessive spatter, review voltage, wire feed speed, inductance if available, and whether the wire is being used within the intended procedure. If fusion is poor, verify travel speed, work angle, joint prep, and heat input settings. These are support checks, not guaranteed fixes. Unknown (Verify) details should be confirmed against the WPS and the manufacturer data sheet.

    Filler Metal Finder Notes

    The filler metal finder is useful when the team is sorting through options for mild steel and carbon steel work. Treat it as a filtering tool. Start with the process, classification, and base metal family, then narrow by job requirement. The finder can help reduce guesswork, but it cannot approve a weld procedure.

    Use these practical selection questions:

    • Is the job MIG / GMAW and solid wire is allowed by the WPS?
    • Is the base metal mild steel or carbon steel?
    • Does the service condition require a different filler or higher control?
    • What diameter is called out, or what size is permitted by the procedure?
    • Is the shielding gas specified, or is it Unknown (Verify)?

    If any answer is unclear, stop and verify before purchase. A common wire selection can still be wrong for the application if the service environment, code, or procedure is not matched.

    Ordering and Setup Checklist

    Before you order or load ER70S-6 wire, run this basic check sequence:

    • Check the WPS number and revision.
    • Inspect the base metal marking, mill certs, or job traveler if available.
    • Verify that the shielding gas, polarity, and wire diameter are compatible with the procedure.
    • Check spool size and feeder capacity for the job volume.
    • Inspect storage conditions to reduce moisture and contamination risk.

    If the documentation is incomplete, the technical answer is not to guess. Mark the missing data as Unknown (Verify) and confirm it through the welder, supervisor, engineer, or manufacturer data sheet.

    Safety Notes

    Welding safety still applies when using a standard mild-steel solid wire. Keep the work area ventilated, protect against arc radiation, and control fumes generated by base metal, coatings, and contamination. Remove flammables from the weld area and use correct PPE. Verify local procedures for hot work, cylinder handling, and shop ventilation. If the job involves coated, painted, plated, or dirty steel, the fume and cleanup risk may be higher than expected.

    FAQ

    Is ER70S-6 a universal choice for all MIG welding?
    No. It is a common starting point for mild steel and carbon steel, but the final choice depends on the WPS, base metal, service conditions, and code requirements.

    Can I use the filler metal page as proof of procedure approval?
    No. The filler metal page is a selection reference only. Confirm the WPS and manufacturer data before welding.

    What wire diameter should I buy?
    Use the diameter listed by the procedure or job requirement. Common sizes may include .023 in, .030 in, .035 in, and .045 in, but the correct size for a given job may be Unknown (Verify) until the WPS is checked.

    What should I verify before troubleshooting weld defects?
    Verify gas delivery, base metal condition, contact tip condition, wire feed path, polarity, and the weld settings before assuming the filler wire is the root cause.

    Sources Checked

    Final note: use the product page and the finder as support tools, then verify the job requirements before ordering or welding. When in doubt, stop and confirm the WPS, base metal, and manufacturer data sheet.

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Weld Support Parts may earn from qualifying purchases.

  • ER70S-3 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-3 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-3 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal

    ER70S-3 MIG / GMAW filler metal is a general-purpose solid wire used on clean carbon steel fabrication. It is typically treated as a starting point for selection, not a final approval for production welding. Before ordering wire or loading a feeder, verify the WPS, code requirements, base metal grade, joint condition, shielding gas, and the manufacturer data sheet.

    Key Takeaways

    • ER70S-3 is a solid MIG/GMAW wire for clean mild steel and carbon steel.
    • Use it as a selection starting point, not as proof of WPS compliance.
    • Lower deoxidizer content means surface condition matters more.
    • Confirm wire diameter, shielding gas, and procedure limits before welding.
    • If the joint has rust, mill scale, or contamination, verify whether a different wire or cleaning method is required.

    What to Check Before You Order

    For ER70S-3, the key question is not just whether the wire matches the material family. It is whether the job condition matches the wire’s intended use. This wire is presented on the WSP filler metal page as a general-purpose option for clean carbon steel fabrication. That means fit-up, cleaning, and procedure control matter.

    Inspect: Base metal type, surface contamination, joint prep, and required weld procedure. Check whether the job uses carbon steel that is clean enough for a general-purpose solid wire. Review the applicable code or spec if the job is code-controlled.

    Verify: The WPS, wire classification, shielding gas, polarity, and diameter. The source page lists ER70S-3 under AWS A5.18, but the job still needs procedure-level verification. If any detail is unclear, record it as Unknown (Verify) rather than assuming it will work.

    Check: The filler metal page and the filler metal finder page together as selection tools. Use them to narrow choices, then confirm with the manufacturer data sheet and internal welding requirements before purchase.

    Troubleshooting Support

    If weld quality is inconsistent, do not start by changing only parameters. Start by checking the basics.

    Issue: Excess spatter or unstable arc

    • Check: Shielding gas setup, stickout, contact tip condition, and drive roll tension.
    • Inspect: Wire feed path for drag, liner wear, and contamination.
    • Verify: That the wire diameter matches the feeder setup and procedure. Unknown (Verify) if the feeder has been reconfigured since the last job.

    Issue: Porosity

    • Check: Base metal cleanliness, gas coverage, and leaks in hoses or fittings.
    • Inspect: Rust, oil, moisture, paint, or mill scale on the joint.
    • Verify: Whether the material condition is suitable for ER70S-3 or if the procedure calls for different cleaning or filler selection.

    Issue: Poor wetting or inconsistent bead shape

    • Check: Voltage, wire feed speed, travel speed, and torch angle.
    • Inspect: Joint gap and part fit-up.
    • Verify: That the welding parameters align with the approved WPS. Do not assume a setting that worked on one job is valid for another.

    Filler Metal Finder Notes

    The WSP filler metal finder page is useful when you need to narrow a wire choice from process and base metal information. It should be treated as a selection starting point only. It does not replace the WPS or manufacturer data sheet.

    Use the finder page to confirm the wire family for MIG / GMAW applications and then compare it against the job requirements. For ER70S-3, the practical question is whether the base metal is clean enough and whether the procedure allows this general-purpose wire. If the service condition is critical, high restraint, or code governed, verify all requirements before release to production.

    ER70S-3 MIG / GMAW filler metal page

    WSP filler metal finder

    How to Use This Wire Correctly

    ER70S-3 is generally used on clean carbon steel where a solid wire is appropriate. The practical checks are simple, but they need to be done in order.

    1. Check the job requirements. Confirm the WPS, material grade, and service conditions.
    2. Inspect the joint. Remove oil, moisture, and loose contamination. Unknown (Verify) if surface cleanliness is acceptable without further prep.
    3. Verify the machine setup. Confirm polarity, drive rolls, liner, tip size, and shielding gas.
    4. Run a test weld. Evaluate bead shape, fusion, and spatter before production welding.
    5. Document results. If the weld is intended for a controlled job, keep the settings and observations with the job record.

    Safety Notes

    • Use proper ventilation or local exhaust when welding.
    • Wear the required eye, hand, and body protection for MIG welding.
    • Keep shielding gas cylinders secured and fittings leak-checked.
    • Do not weld without verifying the base material and procedure requirements.
    • If the metal condition is unknown, stop and verify before proceeding.

    FAQ

    Is ER70S-3 a general-purpose MIG wire?
    Yes, it is presented as a general-purpose solid MIG/GMAW wire for clean carbon steel fabrication. That does not mean it is approved for every job. Verify the WPS and base metal first.

    Can I use ER70S-3 on rusty or dirty steel?
    Not as a default assumption. Lower deoxidizer content means the joint condition matters more. Inspect the surface and verify whether additional cleaning or a different filler is required.

    Does the WSP page replace the manufacturer data sheet?
    No. Use the WSP page and the filler metal finder as selection tools only. Verify the final choice with the manufacturer data sheet and the project requirements.

    What should I verify before buying wire?
    Check the classification, diameter, shielding gas requirement, WPS, base material, and service conditions. If any item is unclear, mark it as Unknown (Verify).

    Sources Checked

    This draft is intended for welders, fabricators, maintenance buyers, and welding support teams who need a practical starting point for filler metal selection. Final responsibility for procedure compliance remains with the user and the governing welding documentation.

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Weld Support Parts may earn from qualifying purchases.

  • ER70S-2 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-2 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal: Filler Metal Finder Notes

    ER70S-2 MIG / GMAW Filler Metal

    ER70S-2 MIG / GMAW filler metal is a solid carbon steel wire used as a forgiving starting point for mild steel and general carbon steel work. It is commonly considered when fit-up is not perfect, mill scale is present, or surface condition is less than ideal. That said, it is not a substitute for the weld procedure specification. Before ordering wire or striking an arc, verify the WPS, code requirements, base metal grade, service conditions, and the manufacturer data sheet.

    Key Takeaways

    • ER70S-2 is a solid wire for MIG / GMAW carbon steel applications.
    • Use the filler metal page as a selection starting point only, not a procedure approval.
    • Confirm base metal, joint design, shielding gas, and wire diameter with the WPS.
    • When fit-up or surface condition is questionable, inspect the joint before you assume the wire will solve the problem.
    • If a requirement is unclear, mark it as Unknown (Verify) and check the governing document.

    What the Filler Metal Finder Page Does

    The ER70S-2 MIG / GMAW filler metal page and the filler metal finder are useful starting points for narrowing a wire choice. They help you move from a general application to a candidate filler metal, but they do not replace the WPS, engineer approval, or code review.

    For this wire, the known basics are limited to the following: classification ER70S-2, AWS specification AWS A5.18, process MIG / GMAW, and intended use on mild steel and carbon steel. Any other detail such as recommended gas mix, weld position limits, current range, or diameter selection must be verified from the actual manufacturer data sheet or the project WPS. If that data is not available, record it as Unknown (Verify).

    Practical Selection Checks

    Use these checks before you put ER70S-2 into service:

    1. Check the WPS. Verify that solid wire carbon steel filler is allowed for the joint and material group.
    2. Inspect the base metal. Confirm the parent metal is mild steel or carbon steel as expected.
    3. Verify service conditions. If the part sees low temperature, pressure, fatigue, or code-controlled service, do not assume this wire is acceptable without review.
    4. Inspect joint prep. Look for rust, oil, paint, heavy scale, moisture, and dimensional mismatch.
    5. Verify shielding gas. Do not guess. The correct gas and flow settings are Unknown (Verify) unless the WPS and manufacturer sheet state them.
    6. Confirm wire diameter. Common sizes may exist, but use only the diameter specified for the job. If not specified, Unknown (Verify).

    Troubleshooting and Support

    If weld quality is inconsistent, work through the problem in order. Do not start by changing wire type unless the procedure allows it.

    1. Verify the joint condition

    • Inspect for contamination on both sides of the joint.
    • Verify that loose mill scale, rust, and paint are removed to the level required by the WPS.
    • Check root opening, land, and fit-up consistency.

    Poor joint condition often looks like a wire problem when it is actually a preparation problem.

    2. Verify the machine setup

    • Check wire feed consistency and drive roll condition.
    • Inspect liner wear, tip wear, and contact tip size.
    • Verify polarity and gas delivery against the WPS. If not stated, Unknown (Verify).

    Erratic feed can cause stubbing, spatter, and poor bead appearance. Do not treat these symptoms as proof that ER70S-2 is the wrong filler.

    3. Verify the weld outcome

    • Inspect bead profile, tie-in, and edge wetting.
    • Check for undercut, porosity, and visible lack of fusion.
    • Verify that the finished weld meets the acceptance criteria for the job.

    If defects repeat, stop and compare the actual setup to the WPS line by line.

    How to Use This Page in Purchasing

    For maintenance buyers and welding support teams, the right workflow is simple: identify the application, pull the WPS, confirm the filler classification, and then compare the wire page to the manufacturer documentation. The filler metal finder page narrows the field, but it does not authorize substitution by itself.

    When a detail is missing from the job packet, do not fill the gap with assumptions. Record the missing item as Unknown (Verify) and request the source document. That includes shielding gas, wire diameter, polarity, and any approval for out-of-position or restricted-service work.

    Safety Notes

    • Follow the WPS and site safety rules before welding.
    • Use ventilation, fume control, and appropriate PPE.
    • Do not weld on unknown or unverified base metal without clearance.
    • Handle wire spools carefully to avoid contamination and damage.
    • If the weld is for code work, pressure work, or critical service, verify the procedure and inspection plan first.

    FAQ

    Is ER70S-2 the same as ER70S-6?

    No. They are different classifications. If either can be used on a job, that must come from the WPS or engineering direction, not from assumption.

    Can I use ER70S-2 on rusty steel?

    It may be considered when fit-up or surface condition is less than ideal, but that does not mean dirty steel is acceptable. Clean the joint to the required level and verify the WPS. If the required prep is unclear, Unknown (Verify).

    What shielding gas should I use?

    Unknown (Verify) unless the WPS or manufacturer data sheet states it. Do not guess gas type or flow rate.

    Can I select wire from the filler metal finder without a WPS?

    No. Use the finder page only as a starting point. It helps identify a likely filler family, but it does not replace procedure approval or code compliance.

    Sources Checked

    Reviewed details were limited to the provided WSP pages and the information supplied in the draft brief. Any unlisted technical detail remains Unknown (Verify).

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Weld Support Parts may earn from qualifying purchases.

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