Matweld Welding Rods Hardfacing 3.2mm M008

The Matweld M008 is a specialized "wear-resistant" electrode designed for high-impact and moderate-abrasion applications. Unlike standard welding rods used to join two pieces of metal, hardfacing rods are used to deposit a thick, toughened layer of alloy onto the surface of a part to extend its service life or restore its original dimensions.

Technical Specifications

• Electrode Diameter: 3.2mm.
• Classification: DIN 8555 (Typically E6-UM-60).
• Hardness: 55 – 60 HRC (Rockwell C) in the "as-welded" state.
• Current Type: AC or DC+ (Electrode Positive).
• Amperage Range: 90A – 130A (Recommended for 3.2mm).
• Alloy Base: Martensitic steel with Chromium and Manganese.

Key Features

• Extreme Hardness: The weld deposit is extremely hard and cannot be easily machined; any finishing must be done by grinding.
• Impact Resistance: Formulated to withstand heavy "hammering" or metal-on-metal impact without spalling or chipping away.
• All-Position Welding: Can be used for vertical or overhead hardfacing, which is essential for repairing large machinery that cannot be easily moved.
• Smooth Arc: Provides a stable arc with a dense, non-porous weld bead that resists cracking during the cooling phase.
• Multi-Layer Capability: Generally allows for 2 to 3 layers of build-up. For very worn parts, a "buffer layer" of Matweld M001 (6013) or M002 (7018) should be applied first.

Common Applications

• Agriculture: Hardfacing plowshares, cultivator points, harvester cutters, and sugar cane knives.
• Construction & Earthmoving: Protecting the "leading edges" of excavator buckets, bulldozer blades, and ripper shanks.
• Mining: Lining chutes, screw conveyors, and crusher hammers.
• Quarrying: Protecting components exposed to rocks, sand, and gravel abrasion.

Usage & Maintenance Tips

• Pattern Selection: Use a "stringer bead" (straight line) for high-impact areas. For areas exposed to fine soil or sand abrasion, a "checkerboard" or "herringbone" pattern is better, as it allows soil to get trapped in the gaps, creating "earth-on-earth" protection.
• Avoid Overheating: Too much heat can dilute the hardfacing alloy with the base metal, lowering the final hardness. Use the minimum amperage required for a stable arc.
• Pre-Heating: For high-carbon steels or thick cast-iron components, pre-heat the part to 200°C – 300°C to prevent the base metal from cracking under the stress of the hard weld.
• Buffer Layers: If the part is severely worn (more than 5mm deep), do not fill the entire gap with M008. Use a cheaper mild steel rod for the bulk of the "build-up" and finish with the last two layers of M008.
• Storage: Keep these rods in a dry, airtight container. If they become damp, the arc will be erratic and the weld may suffer from porosity, which reduces the wear-resistance of the surface.