A form of welding filler metal, normally packaged in straight lengths, that does not conduct the welding current.  Welding rods, like welding electrodes, are designed to meet the needs of the industry. In some instances the same rod is suitable for use with either the GTAW process or oxyacetylene welding (OAW).

The use of a bare welding rod for either application is satisfactory, since the molten weld puddle is shielded. In oxyfuel gas welding, the gas envelope around the weld puddle may be carburizing, oxidizing, or neutral, depending on the gas regulation. In gas tungsten arc welding, an inert gas shields the weld puddle.

Nonferrous materials such as aluminum or bronze, when used with OAW, generally require a flux to shield the weld puddle and to clean the base metal to ensure a more satisfactory weld. The flux may be externally applied or, in some instances, may be applied by coating the rod with the flux.

The American Welding Society maintains specifications for welding rods, including those used for iron and steel, copper and copper alloy, corrosion-resistant

chromium and chromium nickel, aluminum and aluminum alloy, nickel and nickel alloy, cast iron, titanium and titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, and composite surfacing. Specifications for steel rods are available from the American Welding Society in AWS A5.2, Specifcation for Carbon and Low Alloy Steel Rods for Oxyfuel Welding.

X