Good one Al!!
Kent,
Seriously, we hear all kinds of things from welders. Including similar statements as Al posted.
The question is, what do we as inspectors allow? Personally, the code is the code. It, and the manufacturer's specifications, give us the criteria with times for atmospheric exposure. Most fabricators use electrodes with exposure ratings for 'all day', 9 hours. Open the 10 lb tins with a pop top which are truly hermetically sealed in the morning and stick it in the rod oven at night or throw it away.
Now, you probably know, but for the benefit of those who don't, there are provisions in the code for calculating moisture absorption and exposure times differently, 5.3.2.3 and Annex F. But why bother?
Granted, and Al could probably do a very good job with this, I could go to great expository depths and verbal tirades explaining the heat (100-115°F
Officially ) with humidity in the single digits (3-9% very common) this time of year and how that means it is not drawing in moisture as it does along coastal regions with temps in the 90's and humidity in the 80-90's. Plus, left out in the sun temps according to my calibrated IR gun will hit and top 150°F. But, that is not the intent of the code to allow for individual 'I think' scenarios.
You truly need those 250°F + temps to keep the moisture out of the flux. Plus, this time of year, even here in AZ, you must watch so many other factors because when storms blow through that humidity will jump to 75% real quick. And this is our wet time of the year. Plus, many forget to factor in the ... the term just left me... AAHH - dew point and that when they leave that electrode out with certain atmospheric conditions and temperature changes over night it still draws in moisture that wasn't there during daylight hours.
So, bottom line, "how tight" am
I ? Just as tight as normal. There is no exception for any contractor, time of year, temperature/humidity, or other condition. Get your alternate method via the code and get it approved and I will accept it. Otherwise, get a rod oven you cheap skate (not you Kent, just my opinion of those seeking to excuse poor habits and cheapness with weather conditions).
He Is In Control, Have a Great Day, Brent