1170S6045 - ER70S-6 .045 Solid MIG Wire 11lb Spool

Reliable General Purpose Mild Steel MIG Wire

The ER70S-6 .045" Solid MIG Welding Wire in an 11lb spool is a staple consumable for industrial fabrication, maintenance, and repair operations. Designed to meet AWS A5.18 specifications, this wire is classified as ER70S-6, indicating a mild steel composition with elevated levels of manganese and silicon. These added deoxidizers act as cleaning agents during the welding process, scavenging impurities from the molten weld pool. This makes the wire particularly effective when welding on base metals that may have light rust, mill scale, or oil, ensuring a sound deposit with minimal porosity.

For supply chain managers and shop foremen, stocking this 11lb spool format offers a balance between portability and runtime. Unlike smaller 2lb spools which require frequent changeovers, or massive 33lb/44lb spools that require heavy-duty industrial feeders, the 11lb spool (typically on an 8-inch diameter reel) fits a wide range of portable MIG welders and light-industrial machines. This versatility makes it an excellent inventory choice for MRO departments servicing diverse equipment.

The wire features a precision copper coating. This coating serves two primary functions: it protects the steel wire from oxidation during storage, extending shelf life in warehouse environments, and it improves electrical conductivity at the contact tip. Consistent conductivity translates to stable arc initiation and maintenance, reducing downtime associated with contact tip burn-back or erratic feeding. The layer is applied uniformly to prevent flaking, which can otherwise clog liners and gun assemblies.

In terms of mechanical properties, the weld metal deposited by this ER70S-6 wire typically exhibits a tensile strength of at least 70,000 psi, matching or exceeding the strength of standard A36 structural steel. This ensures structural integrity for critical repairs and fabrication projects. The wire is compatible with both 100% CO2 shielding gas, which provides deep penetration and economy, and Argon/CO2 blends (such as C25), which offer a smoother arc and reduced spatter. This adaptability allows the same inventory item to be used across different welding stations with varying gas setups.

Logistically, the 11lb packaging is robust enough to withstand shipping and handling while being light enough for easy manual loading by operators. It represents a cost-effective solution for high-volume usage where full-sized industrial drums are not feasible, but maximum arc-on time is desired.