When it comes to welding, choosing the correct welding consumable is absolutely critical. Whether you’re a welder in the field, an apprentice in training, or a purchasing manager responsible for sourcing materials, understanding the AWS (American Welding Society) classification system equips you to make informed decisions and ensure quality outcomes.

What Is AWS and Why It Is Important?

The American Welding Society (AWS) sets internationally recognized standards for welding procedures, filler metals, and testing protocols. AWS classifications define essential properties such as tensile strength, usability, and suitable applications for various welding electrodes and welding wires.

These codes act as a universal language across industries, helping professionals both in Singapore and globally ensure safety, consistency, and performance in all welding tasks. It’s crucial knowledge for any industrial welding supply operation to ensure consistency across all projects.

Why Understanding AWS Welding Codes Matters

• Welders can select the correct electrode or filler metal to meet structural requirements and reduce weld defects.
• Trainees and apprentices build foundational knowledge for certification and practical work.
• Procurement personnel reduce the risk of incorrect sourcing by understanding product specifications, ensuring they find the right welding rod suppliers Singapore and welding wire supplier.

How to Interpret AWS Welding Consumable Classifications

AWS codes use a combination of letters and numbers to convey key information. For example:

• E6013 (a stick electrode):
  • E = Electrode
  • 60 = Minimum tensile strength of 60,000 pounds per square inch (psi)
  • 1 = All-position capability
  • 3 = Rutile coating type and alternating/direct current (AC/DC) usability
• ER316L (a TIG rod for stainless steel):
  • ER = Electrode or Rod
  • 316L = Alloy type, with “L” indicating low carbon content for enhanced corrosion resistance. This is a common TIG welding filler rod.

Kobelco Welding Consumables: Real-World Examples with AWS Classifications

As a leading Kobelco distributor in Singapore, Babbitt Trading offers a wide range of Kobelco welding consumables that adhere strictly to AWS classifications. Here are some key examples:

• Kobelco RB-26 — E6013 Stick Electrode A rutile-type shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) electrode ideal for mild steel and structural steel applications.
  • 60 ksi tensile strength
  • All-position usability
  • Rutile coating for stable arc and easy slag removal RB-26 is especially suitable for clean, aesthetic welds and is commonly used by shop fabricators and beginner welders in Singapore. It’s a popular choice among welding electrodes.
• Kobelco DW-100 — E71T-1C Flux-Cored Wire A high-performance Kobelco flux cored wire used for CO₂ gas-shielded welding in shipbuilding and heavy structural projects.
  • 70 ksi tensile strength
  • Tubular design
  • All-position usability
  • Designed for use with 100 percent CO₂ shielding gas DW-100 is favored for its high deposition rate, excellent vertical-up weldability, and minimal spatter—enhancing productivity in large-scale fabrication. This is a crucial FCAW welding wire.
• Kobelco TGX-316L — ER316L TIG Rod A stainless steel TIG rod for welding 316 and 316L grades. This is also commonly referred to as TGS50 for specific applications.
  • Contains molybdenum for enhanced pitting resistance
  • Low carbon content prevents carbide precipitation
  • Delivers smooth arc, clean weld bead, and excellent corrosion resistance This product is ideal for food-grade fabrication, chemical processing equipment, and marine structures where hygiene and durability are essential. It’s a prime example of a tig welding rod.

The Value of AWS Knowledge in Welding

Understanding AWS classifications empowers welders, engineers, and buyers to select the right welding consumable that matches both technical requirements and regulatory standards. This knowledge ensures improved performance, structural integrity, and ultimately, project success.

Choose Babbitt Trading for AWS-Classified Kobelco Welding Consumables in Singapore

Since 1978, Babbitt Trading Pte Ltd has been the sole authorized distributor for Kobelco welding consumables in Singapore, supporting professionals with expert advice, genuine products, and reliable delivery. We are your go-to for welding equipment suppliers in Singapore, offering a wide range of welding electrodes, welding rods, and welding wire.

• Address: 50 Hillview Terrace, Singapore 669270
• Telephone: +65 6762 1070
• Email: sales@babbitt.com.sg
• Website: www.babbitt.com.sg

Contact our team today to find the right AWS-classified Kobelco consumable for your application. We are proud to be your welding consumable partners since 1978.