BWS1167GZ - 1/16" Zirconiated Tungsten Electrodes (Brown) - 10 Pack

High-Performance Zirconiated Tungsten for AC Applications

The Best Welds Zirconiated Tungsten Electrodes (EWZr-1) are engineered specifically for the demands of Alternating Current (AC) TIG welding. This 10-pack of 1/16-inch diameter electrodes, identified by their industry-standard brown color code, represents a superior choice for fabricators working primarily with aluminum and magnesium alloys. Unlike pure tungsten, which can struggle with contamination and arc wandering under high thermal stress, zirconiated tungsten contains a small dispersion of zirconium oxide (0.15% to 0.40%). This addition significantly enhances the electrode's performance characteristics without introducing the radioactivity associated with thoriated options.

One of the primary technical advantages of this electrode is its exceptional resistance to contamination. In high-quality radiographic welding, tungsten inclusions can be a major defect; the zirconiated composition minimizes spitting and erosion, ensuring the weld pool remains clean. Furthermore, these electrodes are designed to form and retain a perfect balled end when used with AC current. This balled geometry is critical for maintaining a stable, focused arc that provides good cleaning action on the base material while penetrating effectively. The ground finish of these rods ensures a precise diameter tolerance, allowing for consistent electrical conductivity and fitment within standard collets and collet bodies.

While not recommended for DC welding applications, the Zirconiated tungsten excels in its niche. It handles higher amperage loads than pure tungsten of the same diameter, allowing for greater versatility in heat input. For industrial MRO operations requiring reliable, repeatable results on non-ferrous materials, these electrodes provide the consistency needed to meet strict welding procedure specifications (WPS). Each pack contains 10 seven-inch rods, ensuring a ready supply for production runs or repair jobs.