Welding Equipment and Rods Overview

Welding Equipment and Introduction

• The X Tools MMA 200-ampere welder features digital ring control and is suited for scratch-start welding.
• The amperage is digitally adjustable on the X Tools MMA 200 ampere model welder being reviewed
• The machine allows for both scratch starting and lift TIG welding.
• The presenter reviews welding equipment and rods from personal experience, without sponsorship.
• The presenter is a beginner, primarily welding black steel and stainless steel.
• It is suitable for amateur welders, performing well on both black steel and stainless steel.
• TIG welding may be tested if there is viewer interest.
• A link to the welder is included, but it is not sponsored.

Welding Rods Overview

• The rods featured include basic options and the 601 which is not
• The featured welding rods are:
  • 7014 (also known as 48 ESAB).
  • 8014 (similar to 7014 but with higher PSI, for stronger welds with the same wear).
  • 7016 (similar strength to 7014, used on ships).
  • 601 (cellulose-based, mainly for pipe welding).
• The presenter primarily uses common rods easily available to hobbyists.
• 801 rod is similar to the 701 but provides more PSI in the weld seam making it stronger than the 701 or 48.
• 7016 rod has the same strength as the 701 and is favored by some professionals in shipbuilding.
• 6010 is a US-made cellulose-based rod that is typically used for welding pipes.
• Cellulos based rods have a distinct smell when burning.
• These welding rods can be purchased online.
• Using the last digit in the welding rod name can tell you the welding positions

Accessories and Included Items

• The welding set includes cables, a slag removal brush, and a welding shield mask.
• Package includes the welder, cables, a welding brush (slag hammer), and a basic welding mask.
• An Amazon purchase link will be provided.

Voltage Requirements and the Parkside Welder Comparison

• Some rods need high voltage rather than amperage.
• The Parkside welder can't supply the high voltage required for some welding rods.
• Some rods use cellulose requiring voltage regulation to burn.
• The 601 rod requires high voltage.

Welding Rod Test: 7014

• The welder is set to 81 amperes and 13.6 volts with a 10% hot start for optimal results.
• The presenter used a Biltema welder at the standard 13.6 volts, unlike the lower voltage Parkside welder.
• The welder's hot start and arc force settings are adjustable.

Welding Rod Test: 8014

• The 7014 and 8014 rods ignited immediately due to the hot start feature.
• Both the 48 and 801 rods produced satisfactory welds.
• The welds from both rods were satisfactory.
• Slag removal revealed the underlying material.

Welding Rod Test: 7016

• This rod produces glassy and shiny slag.
• Slag from the 7016 rod appeared glassy and clean, demonstrating good weld penetration.

Welding Rod Test: 601

• Initially, the 601 rod (cellulose-based) sticks with fixed settings.
• The voltage is adjusted to 67.4 volts while the amperage remains at 81, optimizing the 601 rod's performance using a free-regulation system.
• Using fixed voltage with the 6010 rod resulted in poor welding.
• Upon switching to voltage regulation at 67.4V with 81 amperes, welding improved significantly.
• The slag from the 6010 rod was easy to remove.
• The 601 is characterized as a deep-penetrating rod for root welds, followed by capping.
• The 6010 rod is described as a deep-penetrating rod suitable for root welds.
• The welder shows recommended amperage as a general guide, not specific to weld types.
• The welding process with 601 results in a lot of splatter.
• Adjustments could be made to the hot start and arc force to further refine the weld with 6010

Welding Machine Review

• The welder displays an approximate pin size recommendation based on the amperage.
• The welding machine is a good entry-level option.
• The X Tools welder is deemed a worthwhile purchase for its price.
• It is capable of handling a variety of welding tasks for hobbyists.
• The welder will be tested further.
• An Amazon purchase link will be provided.

Final Rod Recommendations

• The 7016 and 8014 are easy to use for general welding, but they're more expensive.
• The 7016 rod are user friendly, but more expensive.
• The 7014 rods are suitable for hobbyists.
• For standard hobbyist tasks like welding in a garage or on a property, the 48/701 rods suffice.
• The 7014 rods can be used on welding machines that struggle with 701 rods, due to different properties.
• 6010 rod is not recommended for general welding unless a welder with adjustable voltage is used.
• The 48/701 and 801 rods are suitable for hobbyists, with the 801 offering slightly better welding characteristics.

Issue with 6010

• Very spattery
• Sprays a lot

A showcase of welding equipment, specifically the X Tools MMA 200-ampere welder. The presenter reviews different welding rods like 7014, 8014, 7016 and, 601, explaining their applications. The presenter primarily welds with black steel and stainless steel.