Which of the following is a common material used for welding electrodes?

The selection of steel as a common material used for welding electrodes is grounded in its widespread application and effectiveness in many welding processes. Steel electrodes are favored because they have good mechanical properties and are capable of producing strong welds. They are used in various welding methods, such as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), where the electrode not only serves as the filler material but also helps create a protective atmosphere for the weld pool.

Steel can be alloyed to enhance specific characteristics, such as strength, ductility, and resistance to corrosion, making it versatile for different welding tasks. Its ability to match with mild steel and other steel types during the welding process further reinforces its practicality.

Other materials, while they have roles in welding, do not serve as primary electrode materials in the same broad capacity as steel. Iron, copper, and aluminum have distinct uses in welding but are less commonly used specifically for electrodes compared to steel. For example, while copper can be used in certain applications for its conductivity and resistance to corrosion, it does not have the structural properties needed for the majority of electrode applications.