Electrode having a nickel-iron core wire, for welding cast iron with or without preheating. The weld metal features a low coefficient of thermal expansion and as a result, little shrinkage. It has higher strength properties than pure nickel weld metal and is therefore preferably used for welding nodular cast iron, white and black heart malleable cast iron, as well as austenitic nodular cast iron or joining these metals to components made of steel, copper or nickel materials. Easy arc striking and restriking, stable arc, smooth bead. Weld metal is machinable. Weld short beads.