The prefix "ER" in the AWS classification system for welding wire indeed stands for "Electrode or Rod." While this may seem counterintuitive for wires used in welding, it's a historical convention in the AWS classification system.
The reason for this terminology dates back to the early days of welding when solid wires were commonly used as electrodes or rods in certain welding processes, particularly in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). As welding technology evolved, the classification system expanded to include various types of welding wires, including solid and flux-cored wires.
Despite the evolution of welding wire technology, the "ER" prefix has persisted in the AWS classification system to designate both electrodes (solid wires) and rods. This convention can be a bit confusing, especially for those unfamiliar with welding terminology, but it's widely recognized within the welding industry.
So, in the case of ER70S-6, while it may seem odd for a welding wire to start with "ER," it's simply a continuation of the established classification system where the "ER" prefix indicates that it's a welding electrode or rod.
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