3/32 (12 SWG) 75-95 amps.
I've been using 5/64" 6013 rods on the high setting for 14 SWG steel.I have a heck of a time with the rods sticking, but that may just be me.
I found a chart on a welding site and cut it down to only show the rods recommended for the amperages I have available. The vertical blue lines show the amperages in my welder.
As you can see, this chart is way off Clarke's recommendations.
I'd like to try 7014 rods - they are easier to strike, right? Are there any disadvantages to these over 6013s?
I don't know, I'm just in the very very early stages of learning to weld but on a youtube video they said 1 amp for every 1/1000 inch of rod diameter. I would like some input as well for what rod would be best for a beginner to use.
I always used the higher setting on my wire feed welder. I found that with my AC stick welder, sticking was a problem at the recommended settings I always had to go to at least 75a, even with 1/16" rods, no matter what kind of rod I used. With my DC stick welder, 55 a is perfect for 16ga with 1/16" and 3/32" sticks, and 60-70a with 1/8" sticks. I use mostly 6013's these days, but I still use 7014's when I start in tight spaces, because I find they start easier and stick less. On thicker steel, like plates for BB's etc., I use 6011's. My welds are better with thick steel and 6011 sticks.