
For welders who demand consistency and ease of use, the Hobart 7018 XLM is a game-changer in the stick welding category. Known for its "Operator Appeal," this rod is designed to take the frustration out of difficult welds. Whether you are working on a structural beam in the flat position or tackling a tricky vertical-up joint on a field repair, the 7018 XLM provides a smooth, quiet arc that stays stable even when the fit-up isn't perfect. The "XLM" stands for Extra Low Moisture, but for you, it translates to a rod that runs clean and minimizes the risk of porosity and cracking.
One of the standout features of this electrode is its puddle control. The weld pool wets out smoothly at the toes but freezes predictably, giving you the confidence to stack dimes in overhead and vertical positions without fighting gravity. Spatter is kept to a minimum, which means less time grinding and cleaning up your workpiece after the hood goes up. Additionally, the slag release is exceptional; in many cases, the slag will curl up and peel off on its own or require just a light tap with a chipping hammer, revealing a shiny, professional-looking bead underneath.
Restriking a partially used rod can often be a headache with low-hydrogen electrodes, but the Hobart 7018 XLM is engineered to offer good restrike capabilities, reducing arc strikes outside the weld zone and saving you material. It runs beautifully on DCEP but is also formulated to perform well on AC, making it a versatile addition to your rod oven regardless of the machine you are plugged into. From heavy equipment repairs to general fabrication, this 50lb can of 1/8-inch rods ensures you have the high-quality filler metal needed to lay down strong, defect-free welds shift after shift.
| Additional Information |
|---|
| Brand:Hobart |
| AWS Spec:E7018-1 |
| Diameter:3.2mm (1/8") |
| Packaging Description:50lb can |
| Polarity:AC/DCEP |
| Position:All |
| AWS Classification:A5.1: E7018-1 H4R |
| Base Metal:Mild Steel |
| Welding Process:Stick (SMAW) |
| Moisture Resistance:Extra Low Moisture (XLM), H4R |
| Package Type:Hermetically Sealed Can |