As an Amazon Associate, Garage Welding may earn from qualifying purchases. This does not change the price you pay.
Waltyotur gasless flux core welding wire is a 10 lb spool of 0.045 in E71T-GS self-shielded wire. The larger diameter makes it a better match for machines and jobs that need more deposition and penetration on mild steel than the thin 0.030 in wires offer. It is worth considering if your welder is rated for 0.045 in wire, you weld mild steel outdoors, and you want a bulk spool. Skip it if your machine tops out at 0.030 or 0.035 in, or if you plan to weld stainless or aluminum.
Waltyotur 0.045 in wire at a glance
| Item | Per the listing |
|---|---|
| Wire type | Gasless self-shielded flux-core, AWS E71T-GS |
| Diameter | 0.045 in |
| Spool weight | 10 lb |
| Shielding gas | Not required |
| Packaging | Vacuum-sealed foil, per the listing |
| Use noted | Single-pass and multi-pass welding on mild steel |
The listing mentions a star rating, but ratings change. Read current buyer comments before ordering.
Check current price on Amazon →
What it is and who it suits
E71T-GS is a general-purpose, self-shielded flux-core wire for mild steel. Because the flux makes its own shielding atmosphere, you do not need a gas bottle, which helps outdoors and on windy job sites.
At 0.045 in, it suits thicker sections and heavier machines than a 0.030 in wire. Farm repair, trailer and gate work, and structural repair on mild steel are the typical uses. The 10 lb spool is meant for machines that take a full-size spool.
How to check it works with your welder
- Check the manual for the maximum wire diameter. Many small 120 V machines are limited to 0.030 in or 0.035 in.
- Check the spool size. A 10 lb spool is a standard 8 in spool on most machines, but confirm the hub and clearance.
- Use drive rolls and contact tips sized for 0.045 in, and use knurled rolls with moderate tension for flux-core.
- Set polarity for gasless wire. Most flux-core wire runs on DC electrode negative.
- Check your liner is sized for 0.045 in and clean.
Pros and limitations
Pros
- No shielding gas needed.
- Larger wire gives more deposition for thicker mild steel.
- Sealed packaging helps protect the wire from moisture before opening.
Limitations
- Needs a machine that can run 0.045 in wire.
- Slag removal, spatter and heavy fume.
- Intended for mild steel. It is not a stainless wire, so use a stainless-rated wire for stainless.
- Check the wire label for allowed positions. A wire may run best flat or horizontal, and vertical or overhead work may need a different classification.
Welding tips and safety
- Clean mill scale, rust and paint at the joint.
- Use your machine chart for voltage and wire speed settings.
- Drag the gun, keep a steady stick-out and watch the slag.
- Chip and brush slag between passes.
- Store opened spools dry in a sealed bag.
Flux-core makes a lot of fume. Ventilate or use extraction, wear a respirator if the area is enclosed, and avoid welding galvanized or coated metal without proper PPE. Use a rated helmet, leather gloves and flame-resistant clothing, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
View current listing on Amazon →
Alternatives and related guides
- Thinner wire for small machines: AWT 0.030 in E71T-GS wire review.
- More on the grade: E71T-GS welding wire review.
- For solid wire with gas: ER70S-6 MIG welding wire review.
- Feeding problems? See MIG drive roller review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this wire need shielding gas?
No. It is a self-shielded E71T-GS flux-core wire, so the flux provides shielding. Most gasless wire runs on DC electrode negative, so check your machine polarity setup before welding.
Will 0.045 in wire work in my welder?
Only if your machine is rated for it. Many small 120 V welders are limited to 0.030 or 0.035 in wire. Check the manual for wire range, drive roll and contact tip sizes.
Can I weld stainless steel with E71T-GS wire?
No, it is designed for mild steel. Stainless needs a stainless filler such as E308L flux-core or matching MIG wire. Using mild steel wire on stainless can reduce corrosion resistance and weld quality.
How should I store a 10 lb spool?
Keep it dry and sealed, ideally in its bag with desiccant, and remove it from the machine if you will not weld for a while. Moisture can cause porosity and rust on the wire.
Conclusion
This 0.045 in E71T-GS spool is a gasless option for mild-steel repair on machines built for larger wire. Confirm wire size, polarity and spool fit before ordering.
