Matweld offers a comprehensive “Group” of welding electrodes and brazing rods tailored for the South African industrial and DIY sectors. Their range is categorized by the material being joined, and they are typically available in “Pre-Packs” (small quantities for quick repairs) or Bulk Boxes (1kg to 5kg for professional fabrication).
1. Mild Steel Electrodes (The Essentials)
These are the most common rods for general repairs, gate manufacturing, and DIY projects.
- General Purpose (E6013): The “all-rounder.” Known for being easy to strike and re-strike. Works on AC or DC and produces a smooth bead.
- Common Sizes: 2.0mm, 2.5mm, 3.15mm, and 4.0mm.
- Low Hydrogen (E7018): Used for structural welding where extra strength is required (e.g., trailer frames or heavy machinery). These provide deeper penetration and a more crack-resistant weld.
- Pro Tip: For best results, 7018 rods should be kept dry, ideally in a rod oven, to prevent moisture absorption.
2. Specialized Repair Electrodes
When you aren’t working with standard mild steel, Matweld provides specific alloys:
- Cast Iron (M005 / M006): Available in 99% Nickel or 55% Nickel. These allow for “cold welding” of cast iron parts like engine blocks or gearbox housings, producing a machinable weld.
- Stainless Steel (M003 / M004): Classified as 316L-16, these are perfect for food-grade applications, tanks, and marine hardware.
- Hardfacing (M008): Designed to add a wear-resistant layer to high-friction parts like bucket teeth, plows, and industrial shears.
- Tool Steel (M001 / M002): Used for repairing or building up specialized tools, dies, and drill bits.
3. Brazing & Soldering Rods
For applications where you aren’t using a standard arc welder but rather an oxy-acetylene or butane torch:
- Aluminum Brazing (M022 / M023): Great for aluminum radiator or AC pipe repairs.
- Bronze Brazing (M015 / M016): Strong, low-fuming manganese bronze rods for joining dissimilar metals.
- Silver Solder (M018 / M019): High-precision rods for delicate jewelry or electrical work.
