E71T-1 Gas-Shielded Flux-Cored Wire: Settings & Buyer's Guide
E71T-1 is the flux-cored wire fabricators reach for when they need to lay down a lot of strong weld metal, fast, on thicker mild steel. If you've outgrown solid MIG wire on heavy work, this is usually the upgrade. Here's what it is and how to run it.
What is E71T-1?
E71T-1 is a rutile, gas-shielded flux-cored (FCAW) wire classified under AWS A5.20 with 70 ksi tensile strength. The tubular wire carries flux inside, which combines with a shielding gas to give a smooth, spray-like arc, high deposition rates, and an easy-to-remove slag. It's an all-position wire, so it runs flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead.
Shielding gas
E71T-1 needs a shielding gas (unlike self-shielded "gasless" E71T-11/GS wires). Run it on 100% CO² for deeper penetration and lower gas cost, or a 75–80% Argon / CO² blend for a smoother arc and less spatter. Polarity is DC+ (DCEP).
Settings by wire diameter
| Diameter | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 0.035" | Thinner plate, all-position, smaller machines |
| 0.045" | General structural and heavy fabrication, high deposition |
Exact voltage and wire-feed speed depend on your machine, thickness, and position — start with the chart on your welder's door and fine-tune for a smooth arc and flat bead.
Common applications
- Structural steel and heavy fabrication
- Thicker plate where solid MIG is too slow
- Shipbuilding, equipment, and general production welding
- All-position work that needs high deposition
E71T-1 vs solid MIG wire (ER70S-6)
Solid wire (ER70S-6) is cleaner and better for thin steel and visible welds. E71T-1 deposits faster, penetrates deeper, and handles thicker steel and less-than-perfect conditions better — at the cost of slag you have to chip. Choose solid wire for sheet and finish work; choose E71T-1 for heavy, high-volume structural welding.
10 lb and 33 lb spools plus bulk multi-roll packs: Shop E71T-1 → · All Flux-Cored Wire →
FAQ
Does E71T-1 need gas?
Yes. E71T-1 is gas-shielded (CO² or Ar/CO²). If you want gasless, use a self-shielded E71T-11 or E71T-GS wire instead.
E71T-1 vs E71T-11 — what's the difference?
E71T-1 is gas-shielded with higher quality and deposition; E71T-11/GS are self-shielded (no gas) for portability and outdoor/windy work.
What polarity for E71T-1?
DC+ (DCEP).
Welding produces fumes and UV radiation. Always follow proper safety practices, ventilation, and PPE, and weld to your applicable procedure or code.