Quick Answer

Separate E6013 and E6010 into distinct tender lines. Define the approved welding procedure, joint and pass for each; state the required AWS edition, power source, polarity and product-specific diameter data. Name the evidence, lot markings, size and pack to be delivered, then require written approval for substitutions. A shared E60 tensile class cannot make the two covered electrodes interchangeable.

Key Takeaways

• E6013 and E6010 are separate AWS A5.1/A5.1M covered-electrode classifications.
• A shared E60 tensile class does not approve substitution in a qualified WPS.
• Typical maker test data does not automatically certify a delivered production lot.

Which Classification and Application Does the Tender Require?

State shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), not continuous wire. List E6013 and E6010 separately under AWS A5.1/A5.1M, with the edition invoked by the customer.

Specify base metal, thickness, joint preparation, pass and inspection context. E6013 may be considered for suitable fabrication; E6010 is commonly chosen for an approved penetrating root pass.

Identify a required trade product or the procedure for approving alternatives. Neither common E60 strength designation nor a neat sample weld authorizes a change.

What Should the Tender Say About Power and Technique?

Record machine, available current type and permitted polarity. Lincoln’s classification guide associates E6010 with DC+; its Fleetweld 5P+ page lists DC- for certain diameters. This product-specific exception does not apply to every E6010 offer.

Ask for amperage by diameter from the proposed product sheet. E6013 products also vary: ESAB Weld 6013 lists AC/DC+ and excludes vertical down, while Fleetweld 37 lists vertical-down capability.

Specify weld position, upward or downward travel when relevant, and the WPS reference. The engineer responsible for the procedure approves any departure; a catalog does not revise it.

Which Documents, Sizes and Delivery Terms Matter?

Request a current technical datasheet naming manufacturer, trade product, AWS class, diameter and pack code; obtain a separate safety data sheet.

Distinguish classification requirements, typical results and any lot-specific report. Name any third-party approval, impact evidence or supplemental procurement requirement and its applicable scope.

For each line, state nominal core diameter and length, net electrode weight per inner pack, carton quantity, required language and lot markings.

Define acceptance of substitutes, packaging damage and written exceptions before awarding the order. State currency, pricing unit, named delivery term and place and shipment timing.

What Should Bidders Answer Line by Line?

RFQ checklist:

1. AWS class and specified edition: align the technical basis for all offers.
2. WPS, base metal, pass and direction: avoid an unsuitable consumable substitution.
3. Machine, polarity and diameter data: verify operating compatibility.
4. Named product and substitution rule: control approval after award.
5. Datasheet, SDS and lot/approval documents: meet inspection needs.
6. Size, packing, labels and commercial basis: compare complete delivered items.

Ask every bidder to mark exceptions against the affected line before purchase.

Buyer FAQ

Can E6013 or E6010 be offered as one interchangeable line?

No. Seek engineering approval for any permitted alternative.

Does “all-position” mean every vertical-down use is allowed?

No. Check the named product and applicable procedure.

Are typical test values a lot certificate?

No. Specify batch-linked documentation when required.

Inquiry: Send the applicable WPS and document checklist through your usual inquiry route to request a line-by-line quote.