E60 vs E70 welding electrodes

[fne]

Our specs for welding structural steel (buildings) have historically called for the use of E70 electrodes. Recently a contractor has requested the use of E60 for some A36 material citing "matching strength criteria". A little research reveals this is not a new concept. What are other firms doing? Any reason not to allow this with the appropriate check of the weld design?

 

[JAE]

We use E60 for galvanized steel welding. Have not used it for “matching” steel.

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[CANPRO]

If it has the required strength, and they have the proper weld procedures in place for the joint/electrode combination then structurally it is fine.

My concern would be consistency - is the entire job to be done with A36 steel and E60 electrodes? If higher strength steel/electrodes are required for other parts of the job then I would be inclined to say stick with the E70 everywhere so it doesn't get mixed up.

 

[dlawrence529]

AWS D1.1 Table 3-1 gives compatible base metal/filler combinations. A36 up to 3/4" thick is a Group I metal that can be welded with E60XX electrodes. A36 over 3/4" thick is a Group II metal which can't be welded with E60XX electrodes. My AWS D1.1 is outdated and your specific project may not be using AWS D1.1.