7018 rods are trendy in the welding industry as they provide versatile and robust welding on almost any kind of metal. It’s often referred to as the “Low-hydrogen electrode.” The welds these rods make are crack-resistant and come with a moisture outer coating.
Like every other electrode, 7018 has expertise in some specific applications. Not only will I tell you about those, but I also will give you tips and tell you about the techniques to get stronger welds.
So, stay tuned.
What is the meaning of E7018?
The American Welding Society (AWS) does the classification and naming of different welding rods by the American Welding Society (AWS). According to their naming strategy, the first letter E represents that it’s an arc, also known as a stick electrode. So if we break down the names,
- E stands for stick electrode.
- The first two numbers, 70 indicate the tensile strength
- The following number indicates which positions this rod can be used to weld. 1 means it can be used in almost any position.
- The last number represents the type of coaching. In this case, 8 means low-hydrogen coating.
Common applications of 7018 welding rods
The 7018 welding rods can be used for different purposes. They were designed for welding high tensile metals like carbon, steel, etc. Usually, 7018 welding rods are primarily seen in constructions, structural welding, bridges, etc.
You can weld different types of metal, starting from plain carbon steel, mild steel, low alloy steel, etc. You can weld with 7018 electrodes in both AC and DC supplies. But to get the best results, make sure to choose DCEP supply.
Because in AC supply, the electrodes can’t produce a smooth weld as the current continuously changes directions. It’s much easier to control while working on DC current.
However, to get the best welds, you need to ensure that you are following the appropriate parameters. If you are not familiar with them, here are they:
- 80 to 100 ampere for 3/32 inch
- 90 to 150 ampere for 1/8 inch
- 110 to 230 ampere for 5/32 inch
- 150 to 300 ampere for 3/16 inch
- 220 to 350 ampere for 7/32 inch
- 270 to 380 ampere for 1/4 inch
Techniques for 7018 welding rods
You need to maintain proper techniques and utilize an E7018 electrode at the same time. Maintaining a decent leading angle is important. Especially while using an E7018 stick electrode. Dragging the stick electrode along the weld joint is the best practice for welding with 7018 rods. Vertical up welding is best done at a 3 to 5-degree angle, and a minor weaving method works great in this position as well.
Don’t forget to keep a narrow arc length when it comes to the flat or horizontal positions, preferably maintaining the stick electrode virtually over the puddle. As a result, the chances of porosity are reduced.
To weld flat and horizontal metals, the best thing to do is to keep the width of the weld bead around 2.5 to 3 times the diameter of the core welding wire within the stick electrode. When welding vertically up, aim for a weld bead width of two and a half to three times the diameter of the core wire. Weld beads that are wider than these standards increase the risk of slag inclusions that can impair the structural integrity of the weld.
Storage and precautions
Since 7018 rods are designated with low-hydrogen, they come in a sealed package. That’s why you need to be careful about protecting these rods from moisture damage. So ensure you are storing the packages of rods in a dry place.
Now once you open the packets, make sure to wear gloves before taking them out. After opening, hold them in an oven at the exact temperature mentioned by the manufacturer.
While using the rods for welding, take safety precautions for yourself well. Wear gloves and helmets to save yourself from the sparks.
Frequently asked questions
Which welding rod is stronger, 6011 or 7018?
Between 6011 and 7018 welding rods, 7018 rods undoubtedly produce stronger welds. The tensile strength of welds produced by 7018 rods is more than 70000 psi.
What is the difference between 7018 and 6013?
While the 6013 rods come with a higher titania potassium coating, 7018 rods come with low hydrogen potassium. Not to mention both rods offer different tensile strengths and the 7018 rods are higher.
What metal CAN 7018 weld?
7018 welding rods can weld almost any type of metal. But you will get the best results while welding carbon steel, low-alloy steel, etc.
Can I weld cast iron with 7018 Rod?
7018 welding rods can be a great option to weld cast iron. But there’s another which might be better. The Hobart 7018 welding rods will be more suitable for welding carat iron.
What is the best rod to weld cast iron?
If you want to get the best welds while welding cast iron, you should go for Nickel alloy electrodes.
Conclusion
I hope this article helped you learn about the 7018 welding rod uses. I also tried to provide other important information regarding 7018 electrodes. Hopefully, with this newfound knowledge, you will be able to weld effortlessly and without any risk.
