WeldFoundry Catalogue 2026.08 · 199 entries
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Torches & Consumables · standing 12 of 23

ESAB Spoolarc 86 Welding Wire (ER80S-D2)

ESAB · owners 4.5/5 from 4 reports · latest 2024-02-03

ESAB Spoolarc 86 is a solid choice for fabricators working with low-alloy, high-strength steel applications such as pressure vessels, heavy equipment, and structural components.

ESAB Spoolarc 86 Welding Wire (ER80S-D2)
Fig. 1 · Torches & Consumables
Mass
33 lb (15 kg)
AWS Classification
ER80S-D2
Wire Diameter
0.035 in / 0.045 in
Tensile Strength
80,000 psi minimum
RequisitionESAB
  • High tensile strength welds
  • Smooth stable arc
  • Low spatter output
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Running it

ESAB Spoolarc 86 is a copper-coated, solid carbon steel MIG welding wire engineered for gas metal arc welding applications that demand strong, dependable weld deposits across a range of structural and fabrication tasks. Formulated to meet AWS ER70S-6 classification standards, this wire contains higher levels of manganese and silicon deoxidizers than standard low-carbon wires, allowing it to perform exceptionally well on base metals with mill scale, light rust, or surface contaminants that would otherwise compromise weld integrity. Welders across shipbuilding, structural steel fabrication, automotive repair, and general manufacturing rely on Spoolarc 86 for its consistent arc characteristics, smooth metal transfer, and reduced spatter, which together contribute to cleaner welds and less post-weld cleanup time. The copper coating on ESAB Spoolarc 86 serves multiple practical purposes beyond corrosion resistance during storage; it also improves electrical conductivity through the contact tip, promotes smoother wire feeding through the gun and liner, and helps maintain a stable arc throughout the welding process. This wire is compatible with both CO2 and argon-CO2 mixed shielding gases, giving fabricators flexibility depending on the specific application, penetration requirements, and desired weld appearance. Its versatility extends to multiple welding positions, including flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead, making it a practical choice for shops that handle diverse project geometries without needing to switch wire types constantly. Packaged in various spool sizes to accommodate both small job shops and high-volume production environments, ESAB Spoolarc 86 is manufactured under tight quality control processes that ensure consistent chemistry and diameter tolerances spool after spool. This consistency translates directly into predictable welding performance, fewer arc interruptions, and reliable mechanical properties in the finished weld, including good tensile strength and ductility suited for structural applications. Whether used in fabrication shops, repair facilities, or heavy equipment manufacturing, Spoolarc 86 remains a trusted workhorse wire that welding professionals specify when they need dependable results from a solid, general-purpose carbon steel MIG wire.

Verdict

ESAB Spoolarc 86 is a solid choice for fabricators working with low-alloy, high-strength steel applications such as pressure vessels, heavy equipment, and structural components. Its ER80S-D2 classification delivers dependable 80 ksi tensile strength welds with good arc stability and manageable spatter, making it a trusted option for professional welders who need consistent, code-compliant results on demanding jobs.

Specification

The full plate

As stated by the manufacturer, 5 lines.

AWS ClassificationER80S-D2
Wire Diameter0.035 in / 0.045 in
Tensile Strength80,000 psi minimum
Spool Weight33 lb (15 kg)
Shielding GasCO2 or Argon/CO2 blend

What holds up

  • Excellent arc stability and consistent wire feeding
  • Produces high tensile strength welds suitable for demanding applications
  • Low spatter levels reduce post-weld cleanup time
  • Good moisture resistance due to copper coating
  • Reliable performance across various welding positions
  • Consistent chemistry batch to batch

What costs you

  • Higher cost compared to standard ER70S wires
  • Requires precise gas shielding for optimal results
  • Limited availability in smaller spool sizes at some suppliers
  • Not ideal for beginners due to sensitivity to parameter settings

Stated features

  • AWS A5.28 ER80S-D2 classification for low-alloy steel welding
  • Copper-coated carbon-molybdenum steel wire for smooth feeding
  • Optimized for high strength steel applications requiring 80 ksi tensile strength
  • Low spatter, stable arc characteristics with excellent bead profile
  • Compatible with CO2 and Argon/CO2 shielding gas mixtures
  • Available in multiple spool sizes for various production needs
Owner reports

4 people who bought it

Great wire for pressure vessel work Mike Reinholt · 2023-11-14

Been using Spoolarc 86 for pipe fabrication requiring higher tensile strength. Feeds smooth through my Miller setup and the bead appearance is clean. Passed all our X-ray inspections without issue.

Solid performer, watch your gas mix Dana Kowalski · 2024-02-03

Works great once you dial in your shielding gas. I run 90/10 argon/CO2 and get minimal spatter. Slightly pricier than standard wire but worth it for structural steel jobs.

Reliable for heavy equipment repair Carlos Mendez · 2023-09-22

Used this on some high-strength steel repairs for construction equipment. Good penetration and the weld metal properties matched spec sheets. Would buy again for similar applications.

Consistent quality spool after spool Tom Whitfield · 2024-01-18

Ordered multiple spools over the past year and quality has been consistent every time. Arc stability is impressive even at higher amperages. This is my go-to for D2 classification work.

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