David,
WELCOME TO THE AWS WELDING FORUM!!
Thank you for coming here with your query.
Now, as Al has stated/asked/responded, more than likely the 'key stock' and/or 'round rod' is not matching material. Also, many of them are not listed in Table 3.1 or 3.2 as pre-approved materials for work performed to D1.1.
BUT, You haven't told us what code, if any, is being used on your job.
So, ASSUMING D1.1 is invoked, you more than likely would need a PQR and/or engineer approval just to use the material.
Now, if we are talking about A36 square bar or hot rolled rounds then material grade MAY be compatible.
So, next question, how about joint design? Are you talking about slugging as others have surmised, or are you talking about using it as the backing bar that would normally be made from flat bar, 5/16 X 1 1/2" normally, in order to weld from one side only.
Third question, what do you mean by "in a moment connection with large gaps"? How large are we talking? Do you know the maximum root opening allowable for your joint?
Just a few questions that we really need answers to before making too large a fool out of ourselves.
He Is In Control, Have a Great Day, Brent
Consumable inserts?
