WC116X7 - Miller Weldcraft 1/16" Ceriated Tungsten (Gray) - 10 Pack

Precision TIG Welding with 2% Ceriated Tungsten

The Miller Weldcraft WC116X7 is a premium 2% Ceriated Tungsten electrode designed for high-precision Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). Identified by its gray color code and AWS classification EWCe-2 (or WC20), this electrode is engineered with a composition of 97.3% tungsten and 1.8% to 2.2% cerium oxide. This specific formulation provides a distinct advantage in orbital tube welding, pipe fabricating, and thin sheet metal applications where low-amperage arc stability is critical. Unlike thoriated tungsten, ceriated electrodes are non-radioactive, eliminating the safety concerns associated with handling and grinding radioactive materials while maintaining comparable, if not superior, performance characteristics in specific ranges.

Technically, the addition of cerium oxide lowers the work function of the tungsten, allowing for easier electron emission. This results in exceptional ignition and re-ignition properties, even at very low current settings. The WC116X7 exhibits a low erosion rate, which translates to a longer service life and reduced downtime for regrinding. It is highly versatile, capable of operating proficiently in both Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC) modes. When used with inverter-based power sources, it provides a stable, focused arc essential for intricate work. While it excels at lower amperages, it maintains structural integrity without spitting, ensuring a clean weld pool free of tungsten inclusions.

This 1/16-inch (1.6mm) diameter electrode is particularly effective for welding small parts and thin materials. It is compatible with a broad spectrum of base metals, including carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, and titanium alloys. Furthermore, it serves as a viable option for aluminum and magnesium alloys in AC processes, offering a stable arc that rivals pure tungsten but with better current carrying capacity. The 7-inch length fits standard TIG torches, and the 10-pack packaging ensures a consistent supply for production environments requiring high-quality, repeatable welds.