Q796F68 - ESAB WL15 Gold Tungsten Electrodes 3.2mm x 175mm (10-Pack)

High-Performance WL15 Lanthanated Tungsten Electrodes

The ESAB WL15 Tungsten Electrodes are premium-grade, non-radioactive welding electrodes designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern TIG (GTAW) applications. Composed of 98.5% tungsten and 1.5% lanthanum oxide (La2O3), these electrodes are engineered to provide excellent arc starting, arc stability, and re-ignition characteristics. The 3.2mm (1/8 inch) diameter and 175mm (7 inch) length make them a standard fit for a wide range of industrial TIG torches. The 'GR' designation indicates a ground finish, ensuring precise diameter tolerance and optimal surface smoothness for consistent electrical conductivity.

WL15 electrodes, identified by their Gold color code, are widely recognized as the versatile 'all-rounder' in the welding industry. They effectively bridge the gap between pure tungsten and thoriated tungsten, offering similar conductivity characteristics to 2% thoriated (red) electrodes but without the radioactive hazard. This makes them safer for welders to grind and handle, simplifying safety compliance in industrial environments. They perform exceptionally well in both DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative) applications for welding carbon and stainless steels, as well as AC (Alternating Current) applications for aluminum and magnesium alloys.

Technical advantages of the WL15 composition include a high current-carrying capacity and a low burn-off rate. This results in a longer service life and less frequent tip regrinding compared to pure or zirconiated tungsten. The 1.5% lanthanum oxide addition lowers the work function of the electrode, facilitating easier electron emission. This translates to reliable arc striking even at lower voltages, making these electrodes particularly suitable for automated welding processes and applications requiring frequent tack welding. This pack contains 10 electrodes, providing a durable supply for fabrication shops and maintenance departments.