Arcweld E7018-1 Low Hydrogen Stick Electrode 3.2mm (1/8")

Arcweld E7018-1: The Professional's Choice for Critical Welds

Elevate your shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) projects with the Arcweld 7018-1 Stick Electrode. This 3.2mm (1/8") rod is a premium low-hydrogen, iron powder electrode designed for welding carbon and high-strength low-alloy steels. The "-1" suffix in the AWS E7018-1 classification indicates that this electrode has been tested to meet stricter impact toughness requirements at lower temperatures (typically -45°C) compared to standard E7018 rods. This makes it the ideal solution for projects subject to dynamic loading or cold environments.

The Arcweld 7018-1 is renowned for its excellent operator appeal. It produces a quiet, smooth arc with very low spatter levels, allowing for high-quality X-ray clear welds. The iron powder in the coating increases the deposition rate, allowing you to lay down more metal in less time compared to non-iron powder electrodes. The resulting weld bead is smooth with fine ripples, and the heavy slag is easily removed, reducing downtime between passes.

Moisture resistance is a critical factor for low-hydrogen electrodes. The Arcweld 528MR formulation significantly reduces the rate of moisture absorption from the atmosphere. This helps prevent hydrogen cracking (cold cracking) in the heat-affected zone of the base metal, a common issue when welding thick sections or restrained joints. While it is highly resistant, we still recommend storing these rods in a holding oven once the package is opened to maintain their low-hydrogen status.

This 3.2mm diameter rod is the workhorse size for general fabrication, capable of handling a wide range of material thicknesses. It operates best on DC+ polarity, providing the necessary penetration for root passes and fill passes alike. Whether you are repairing heavy machinery or fabricating structural frames, the Arcweld 7018-1 delivers the consistency and strength professional welders rely on.

Key Technical Benefits

• High Impact Toughness: Meets Charpy V-Notch requirements for critical applications.
• Low Hydrogen Content: Minimizes risk of under-bead cracking.
• All-Position Capability: Versatile performance in flat, vertical, and overhead positions.
• Easy Slag Removal: Saves time on cleanup and inter-pass grinding.