Basic electrode coating

Basic electrodes are the first choice when you want tough, crack-resistant weld metal, especially for high-strength steels or when it's cold. The key point is the low hydrogen content in the weld metal – that prevents cold cracking. Just make sure the electrodes stay dry; wet rods immediately pick up hydrogen again, and then you're in trouble. The slag is tough and harder to remove, and the weld bead won't be as smooth as with other types – you have to plan for that during finishing. Keep the arc short and clean, and don't weld on dirty material, then it'll be fine.