Lanthanated Tungsten Electrode (WL15 / WL20) — Gold (WL15) / Blue (WL20) TIG Tungsten Electrode
Lanthanated tungsten electrodes WL15 (gold tip) and WL20 (blue tip) contain 1.5–2% lanthanum oxide, giving the best all-round balance of easy starting, arc stability and long service life. They work on both DC and AC and are the strong general-purpose alternative to thoriated electrodes.
Ground & cleaned · diameter tolerance h7 · MOQ 100 pcs, mixed sizes accepted
Lanthanated Tungsten Electrode (WL15 / WL20) specification
| Color code | Gold (WL15) / Blue (WL20) |
|---|---|
| Composition | La₂O₃ 1.5–2% (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 | DC & AC |
| 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
- Wide current range — usable on DC and AC
- Excellent arc stability and re-ignition
- Long service life at moderate burn-off
- Non-radioactive alternative to thoriated electrodes
Recommended applications
Manual and automated welding of stainless steel, carbon steel, titanium, nickel and their alloys. WL20 suits high-amperage work, WL15 offers a slightly softer arc — many workshops stock both. Also increasingly chosen for AC aluminium jobs where WP wear is too fast.
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
WL15 or WL20 — which should I order?
WL15 is gold and WL20 is blue under ISO 6848. WL20 (2% La₂O₃) starts easiest and lasts longest; WL15 (1.5%) gives a slightly wider, softer arc. If you are unsure, order a mixed trial of both.
Can lanthanated replace my red thoriated stock?
In most DC applications, yes — WL15/WL20 is the common non-radioactive replacement. Ask us and we will suggest the closest match for your amperage range.
Does WL20 work on AC aluminium?
Yes, lanthanated electrodes run on AC and keep a rounded tip well. For dedicated high-current AC aluminium work, WZ8 zirconiated is also worth comparing.
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.