
For professional welders who demand control and consistency, the Hobart 7018 XLM is a game-changer in the stick welding category. The "XLM" stands for Extra Low Moisture, but on the job site, it translates to a rod that runs smooth, starts easy, and lays down a bead you can be proud of. Designed for all-position welding, this 5/32-inch rod excels where others struggle, particularly in vertical-up and overhead positions. The weld puddle is easily controllable, allowing you to manipulate the arc for perfect tie-ins and flat bead profiles without fighting gravity.
One of the standout features of the 7018 XLM is its operator appeal. It produces a quiet, stable arc with minimal spatter, keeping your workpiece cleaner and reducing the amount of grinding needed after the hood goes up. Slag removal is often a headache with 7018 rods, but Hobart has formulated this electrode so the slag releases easily—often peeling up on its own as it cools. This saves you time and frustration, especially when you are running multiple passes on thick structural steel or pipe.
Restrike capabilities are another area where this rod shines. We all know the frustration of a rod that sticks or won't light back up after a pause. The Hobart 7018 XLM is designed to restrike reliably, making it excellent for tacking operations or stitch welding. Whether you are working on field erections, repairing heavy mining equipment, or fabricating offshore rigs, this rod gives you the confidence that the arc will establish instantly and run smoothly from the start of the burn to the stub.
Packaged in a rugged 50 lb hermetically sealed can, these rods stay dry until you crack the seal. This means you get fresh performance right out of the box, with no porosity caused by moisture contamination. Compatible with both AC and DCEP, it fits whatever machine you have on the truck or in the shop. If you are looking for a 7018 that makes out-of-position welding feel less like a chore and more like an art form, the Hobart 7018 XLM is the rod to keep in your oven.
| Additional Information |
|---|
| Brand:Hobart |
| AWS Spec:E7018-1 |
| Diameter:4.0mm (5/32") |
| Packaging Description:50lb can |
| Polarity:AC/DCEP |
| Position:All |
| Rod Type:Stick Electrode |
| Coating Type:Iron Powder Low Hydrogen |
| Moisture Resistance:H4R |
| Base Metal:Mild Steel |
| Welding Process:SMAW |