Which of the following best describes the welding characteristics of E6010 electrodes?

• A. Deep penetration, DC reverse polarity only
• B. Shallow penetration, AC polarity
• C. Moderate penetration, DC straight polarity
• D. Deep penetration, AC reverse polarity

Answer: (A)

E6010 is a cellulose-coated electrode designed to produce a very energetic, penetrating arc. That penetrating capability comes from its flux chemistry, and it is used with direct current in reverse polarity, which drives more heat into the joint. So the combination of deep penetration and DC reverse polarity best matches how this electrode welds. The other scenarios—AC operation, or shallower/moderate penetration, or DC straight polarity—don’t align with E6010’s typical welding behavior.