RE: [MW:4205] Welding Electrode Expire Date

Hi Louis & Yanferizal,

Thanks for your query and answers.

Discussion thread, (MW-3238, Sept-2009) Shelf life of Low hydrogen electrodes provides
some snapshots of intense discussion on the above topic.

Its true that boiler or pressure vessel codes or structural welding codes do not specify the shelf-
life or expiry dates of welding electrodes. For example, ASME Nuclear Codes Sec-III, Clause &
NB, NC-2440 specifies that:- Suitable storage and handling of electrodes, flux, and other
welding materials shall be maintained. Precautions shall be taken to minimize absorption of
moisture by fluxes and cored, fabricated, and coated electrodes.

The shelf-life of welding electrodes to a great extent depends on electrode manufacturers

methods, quality control procedure and how electrodes are handled. Depending on the coating
type, packing (hermetically sealed or not), storing methods and ambient conditions, humidity etc,
electrodes may last long or less. However as a good practice and based on electrode
manufacturers guidelines it may be worth considering:-

Solid Wires, GTAW/GMAW-No shelf Life.

Cored Wire FCAW- No shelf life

SMAW The rule should be FIFO (First in First Out). Electrodes where the coating
shows sign of flaking, cracks etc certainly should be discarded without much thoughts.
Electrodes not older than 2-3 years but in good condition may be used. If required the
diffusible hydrogen test could be repeated. Electrodes older than 3 years generally
should not be used as a good engineering rule.

SAW Fluxes- Shelf life 2-3 years maximum subject to the flux condition and amount
of fine particles/dust generated and behavior during welding