Welding Reference Library · Measure & Identify

Identifying Spool and Package Types

The common package forms for MIG and flux-cored wire, from small 4 in spools to bulk drums, and what to check so a package fits the customer's wire feeder.

Ref WG-0303AWS A5.18

Draft, open for review. Check every value against the governing standard and the manufacturer’s data before use.

What it is

Welding wire is sold on spools, coils, reels and in drums or boxes. AWS A5.18 and the related filler standards describe standard package forms and require each package to be labeled with the classification, size, net weight, lot and maker. The package must fit the feeder: spool diameter, hub size and weight capacity all matter. Net weights below are typical for steel wire; aluminum and other light alloys fill the same spool at a lower weight.

How to identify

Read the label: classification, diameter, net weight, lot number.
Measure the outside diameter of the spool flange.
Check the center hole (arbor) against the feeder spindle.
Note the spool material (plastic, wire basket, wood or fiber) and any adapter needed.

Package types

Package	Typical size or weight (steel)	Where used	Check
Small spool	4 in diameter, about 1 to 2 lb	Small 120 V MIG units, spool guns	Hub fits the small spindle
Medium spool	8 in diameter, often 10 to 12.5 lb (11 lb is common)	Hobby and light shop machines	Machine accepts 8 in spools
Large spool	12 in diameter, 33 lb or 44 lb	Industrial feeders	Feeder rated for the weight
Wire basket	12 in nominal, about 30 to 33 lb	Industrial feeders with an adapter	Basket adapter on hand
Coil	About 60 lb	Feeders with a coil reel	Coil reel adapter
Reel	Several hundred lb	Heavy production, automation	Reel stand and payoff
Drum or box	Several hundred to 1,000 lb or more	Robotic and high production lines	Drum cover, conduit and payoff system

Key points

Bulk packages save changeover time but need matching payoff equipment.
Aluminum wire is often sold in smaller packages and fed with spool guns or push-pull systems.
Store opened spools covered and dry. Some flux-cored wires pick up moisture.
Lot numbers matter for traceability on code work. Keep the label with the spool.
Net weight on the label, not size of the spool, sets price per pound comparisons.

Common mistakes

Selling a 12 in spool to a customer whose machine takes only 8 in.
Forgetting the adapter for basket or coil packages.
Mounting a heavy spool on a feeder not rated for it.
Throwing away the label before the spool is used up.

Governing standards: AWS A5.18; AWS A5.01 (procurement guidelines).

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.

More in Measure & Identify

← All Welding sheets