Rod recommendations

[Brad93]

From what I remmember ( and it was a long time back ) they were cheap, more than adiquate for the work and forgiving for us rather unskilled workers at the time, and you could stove, weld down ways with them. I dont think a long boat needs anything spectacular in the welding department, but Im sure someone will chip in with more info on prep and procedure if im wrong. I think design would be more important, any ship builders in the house?

Well the welding should really be carried out to a Lloyd’s or DNV standard like any other boat.

if someone wants an idiot proof rod I would recommend a 7016 Spezial from the likes of ESAB or Bohler. Comet J50 used to be the standard rod.

 

[Brad93]

I found a little shop 5 minutes drive away from our new workshop today that stock welding supplies but it's all parweld stuff. Anyone tried there rods? Are they more rebranded crap or ok?

More rebranded crap mate.
Did ESAB get back to you?

 

[spaffmonkey]

More rebranded crap mate.
Did ESAB get back to you?

I thought as much. Today was manic again so I only messaged them about 7pm tonight so hopefully I'll get a response tomorrow

 

[Robert Mullins]

In ship repair, we used 'vodex' even on shell plate inserts, occasional problems could occur and we'd resort to 7018s but this was unusual, on one huge insert we had to fully weld the butt in 3 foot sections after the root kept cracking as we neared it's completion; this was all done with the Lloyds inspectors knowing and approval

 

[Robert Mullins]

Evening all. I am starting to do alot more arc welding over mig for work and need to order some more rods. I'm looking for recommendations on what to buy next.
I mainly use the arc for doing welding on the hulls of narrowboats and often it's in upside down positions or vertical. I've mainly been using the 6013 bohlar rods from my local BOC. Last time I needed some rods i ordered some 6013 super6s and they have been terrible. Just wondering what you guys prefer for doing similar position works.

BOC Vodex, exactly what they designed to do

 

[TechnicAl]

BOC Vodex, exactly what they designed to do

Agree....they might not be as smooth as some and they might be a bit spattery but you will get a good weld with enough pen..probably not as good as they used to be after they moved production....they never are as I well know.