Welding electrodes play a vital role in the success of any project. Among the many available options, the 7018 welding rod stands out as one of the most trusted and widely used electrodes in construction, fabrication, and heavy-duty welding. If you are new to welding or want to understand the 7018 welding rod meaning, this guide will give you a clear, easy-to-follow explanation.
What Does 7018 Welding Rod Mean?
The number 7018 is not random. It follows the AWS (American Welding Society) classification system for electrodes. Each digit has a specific meaning:
- 70 → Tensile strength of the weld metal is 70,000 psi.
- 1 → Welding position. The number 1 means it can be used in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead).
- 8 → Refers to the type of coating and current. The “8” indicates a low-hydrogen potassium coating with iron powder, designed for AC or DC+ welding.
In short, a 7018 welding rod is a low-hydrogen, all-position electrode with high strength and excellent weld quality.
Key Properties of 7018 Welding Rods
- Low Hydrogen Coating
- Prevents hydrogen-induced cracking.
- Ensures strong, ductile welds.
- Smooth Arc
- Produces a stable arc, making it beginner-friendly.
- Slag Removal
- Slag peels off easily, improving efficiency.
- Tensile Strength
- Up to 70,000 psi, suitable for structural steel.
- Storage Requirement
- Must be kept dry in a welding rod oven to avoid moisture absorption.
Common Applications of 7018 Welding Rods
The 7018 electrode is highly versatile and often used in:
- Structural welding – bridges, buildings, and steel frameworks.
- Pipeline welding – oil, gas, and water pipelines.
- Heavy machinery – repair and fabrication.
- Shipbuilding – strong joints for marine environments.
- Pressure vessels and boilers – where weld integrity is critical.
Advantages of Using 7018 Welding Rods
- All-position welding flexibility.
- Excellent crack resistance.
- Produces clean, smooth welds with minimal spatter.
- Works on both AC and DC+.
- High-quality finish, reducing the need for rework.
Limitations of 7018 Welding Rods
While 7018 rods are popular, they also have some challenges:
- Must be stored in a rod oven to prevent moisture pickup.
- Slightly more expensive than general-purpose rods like 6013.
- Slower deposition rate compared to flux-core wires.
7018 vs Other Welding Rods
- 6010 Rods → Deep penetration, best for root passes, but less smooth finish.
- 6013 Rods → Easy to use, ideal for thin metals, but not as strong as 7018.
- 7014 Rods → Similar to 7018 but with higher deposition.
For strong, structural welds, 7018 remains the first choice.
Best Practices for Using 7018 Welding Rods
- Preheat the metal when working with thick or high-carbon steel.
- Keep electrodes dry – use a rod oven at 250–300°F.
- Use the right polarity – works well with both AC and DC+.
- Maintain a short arc length to avoid porosity.
- Store properly – once exposed to moisture, rods may need re-baking.