I am not one to post much.. but i figured this would be funny to post. I am a perfectionist when i do things.. so i tried my best.. I was using 7018 low hydrogen rods around 125amps .. Let me know whatcha all think. I know there is some porosity in them.

( I am a welding student just starting and we havent even started welding anything were doing all class stuff right now)

 

wish i could weld

 

sweet man im 17 and in welding class in my second semester just wait till wire welding its way more fun then stick welding and tig is a new world from that... Good luck just wait till you can start messing around im gonna build my own tow hooks in class and other things for my es2 good luck man!!!

 

Run some 6010, 7018's too easy lol. The stick does the work for you basically.

 

6010 is a rod that requires more manipulation for sure.
You should use a slightly shorter arc to combat the porosity.
125 amps is a good starting point, but I always teach students to get used to running hot.
I run the 2G root in at 90-95 amps with 1/8" 6010, then hot pass with 1/8" 7018 at 145-150 amps. Then cap with 3/32" at 95, or 1/8" at 125.
Hotter with a tighter arc is how you pass certifications and keep a job around these parts.
Hot, fast, and clean. If you want to run some 6010 in the 2F, post them up and I'll have a look.