Ceriated Tungsten Electrode (WC20) — Grey TIG Tungsten Electrode
Ceriated tungsten electrode WC20 (grey tip) adds 2% cerium oxide for excellent arc starting at low current. It is non-radioactive, re-ignites easily on automated cycles, and has become the popular substitute for thoriated electrodes in precision DC work.
Ground & cleaned · diameter tolerance h7 · MOQ 100 pcs, mixed sizes accepted

Ceriated Tungsten Electrode (WC20) specification
| Color code | Grey |
|---|---|
| Composition | CeO₂ 2% (nominal) |
| Standard | AWS A5.12 / ISO 6848 |
| Available diameter | 1.0 – 6.4 mm (see size table) |
| Available length | 150 mm / 175 mm, other lengths on request |
| Current type | DCEN, best at low current |
| Surface finish | Ground (bright) and cleaned |
| Packaging | 10 pcs/plastic box · 100 pcs/box · bulk cartons |
| MOQ | 100 pcs (mixed sizes accepted) |
Recommended welding current by diameter is being finalized by our engineers and is provided on request — ask for the reference chart with your inquiry so you receive verified values rather than generic estimates.
Main features
- Excellent low-current arc starting
- Low burn-off and long tip life
- Non-radioactive — a popular substitute for thoriated electrodes
- Easy re-ignition on automated and robotic cycles
Recommended applications
Thin sheet and precision DC welding — low-current work on steel, stainless and alloy materials, as well as automated and robotic TIG lines where reliable re-ignition matters. Popular in medical, food-processing and thin-gauge fabrication.
Not certain this is the right type? Check the selection guide or ask us directly — we answer specification questions before you order.
Frequently asked questions
Why choose ceriated over thoriated?
WC20 offers comparable arc starting without radioactive content, and it performs even better than WT20 at low amperage. For high-current DC work, lanthanated WL20 is usually the stronger alternative.
Which polarity suits WC20 best?
DCEN, especially at low current. At very high currents the cerium oxide diffuses faster, so tip life shortens compared with lanthanated types.
Is WC20 available in small trial packs?
Yes — MOQ is 100 pcs and mixed sizes are accepted, so you can trial WC20 alongside other types in one shipment.
Need a quotation for tungsten electrodes?
Tell us the type, diameter, length and quantity — mixed sizes are welcome. We reply with specification, price and lead time.