Among the wide range of electrodes available to welders, the 7018 welding rod stands as one of the most trusted and widely used options. Known for its strength, reliability, and low-hydrogen coating, the 7018 welding rod is essential in industries where weld quality cannot be compromised.
But what is the 7018 welding rod used for? Why is it a preferred choice in structural and industrial welding? This guide will answer those questions in detail while covering everything U need to know about the 7018 welding rod.
Understanding the 7018 Welding Rod Meaning
The 7018 welding rod follows the AWS (American Welding Society) classification system. Its code provides a lot of useful information:
- E = Electrode (suitable for SMAW/Stick Welding)
- 70 = Minimum tensile strength of 70,000 psi
- 1 = Usable in all positions (flat, vertical, horizontal, overhead)
- 8 = Low-hydrogen potassium coating with iron powder, works with AC or DC
So, the 7018 welding rod meaning is: a low-hydrogen, iron powder-coated electrode that delivers 70,000 psi tensile strength welds in all positions.
Properties of 7018 Welding Rods
The strength of the 7018 electrode lies in its chemical coating and arc behavior. Below are its main properties:
- Low-Hydrogen Coating
- Reduces hydrogen-induced cracking
- Produces cleaner, stronger welds
- High Tensile Strength
- Can withstand 70,000 psi, making it perfect for heavy-duty projects
- Excellent Ductility and Impact Resistance
- Performs well under stress and in low-temperature environments
- Smooth and Stable Arc
- Produces less spatter and a clean weld bead
- Easy Slag Removal
- Leaves a professional-looking finish
- Versatile Polarity
- Works with both AC and DC, though DC+ is preferred for deeper penetration
What Is 7018 Welding Rod Used For?
The 7018 welding rod is a workhorse electrode in professional welding. Its applications span across many industries due to its strength, durability, and reliability. Let’s explore the main uses:
1. Structural Steel Welding
- Widely used in bridges, high-rise buildings, and towers.
- Ensures joints meet strict strength and safety codes.
2. Pressure Vessels and Boilers
- Common in power plants and chemical facilities.
- Low-hydrogen property reduces cracking under pressure.
3. Shipbuilding and Offshore Welding
- Withstands tough marine conditions.
- Provides durability against corrosion and stress.
4. Pipeline Welding
- Used in certain pipeline projects requiring strength and impact resistance.
- Ensures safe performance under internal pressure.
5. Heavy Equipment and Industrial Fabrication
- Used in manufacturing cranes, earthmovers, and machinery.
- Handles vibrations, heavy loads, and stress effectively.
6. Repair and Maintenance Welding
- Common for repairing broken parts on industrial equipment.
- Suitable for welding medium and high-carbon steels.
Why Choose 7018 Over Other Electrodes?
The 7018 welding rod is often preferred over alternatives like E6010 or E6013. Here’s why:
- Stronger welds (70,000 psi vs. 60,000 psi)
- Cleaner, low-hydrogen welds reduce cracking risk
- All-position welding capability for versatility
- Better impact resistance for demanding environments
While it may be slower to use compared to fast-freeze rods like 6010, the weld quality of 7018 is unmatched in critical applications.
Limitations of 7018 Welding Rod
Like all electrodes, 7018 has some disadvantages:
- Moisture Sensitivity
- Must be stored in rod ovens at 250–300°F.
- Exposure to moisture can cause porosity and cracking.
- Requires Clean Metal
- Performs best on clean, rust-free surfaces.
- Not Ideal for Beginners
- Striking and maintaining the arc can be tricky for new welders.
Best Practices When Using 7018 Welding Rod
To get the best welds, welders must follow proper handling and techniques:
- Storage
- Keep electrodes in heated ovens to prevent moisture absorption.
- Preheating
- Preheat thicker materials to avoid cold cracking.
- Polarity
- Use DC+ (reverse polarity) for deeper penetration.
- Short Arc Length
- Helps control slag and ensures a clean bead.
- Proper Travel Speed
- Maintain consistent speed to avoid defects.
Comparison: 7018 vs. Other Welding Rods
| Electrode | Strength | Coating | Best Use | Polarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6010 | 60,000 psi | High hydrogen | Pipelines, root passes | DCEP |
| 6013 | 60,000 psi | Rutile | Light fabrication, sheet metal | AC/DC |
| 7018 | 70,000 psi | Low-hydrogen, iron powder | Structural, heavy-duty | AC/DC |
| 7024 | 70,000 psi | Iron powder | Flat & horizontal fillet welds | AC/DC |
Conclusion: Why 7018 Is Indispensable
The 7018 welding rod is one of the most important electrodes in the world of welding. Its combination of high tensile strength, low-hydrogen properties, and all-position usability makes it indispensable for industries like construction, pipelines, shipbuilding, and heavy equipment fabrication.
Whenever weld quality, durability, and safety cannot be compromised, the 7018 electrode is the go-to choice.