5500504000 - ESAB OK 55.00 E7018-1 Low Hydrogen Stick Electrode 5.0mm x 450mm

Reliable 7018-1 Rod for Heavy Duty Welding

When your welds need to pass X-ray and hold up under extreme stress, the ESAB OK 55.00 is the rod you reach for. This is a classic E7018-1 electrode that has earned a reputation among professional welders for its smooth runnability and forgiving arc. Unlike some low-hydrogen rods that can be finicky to start or prone to fingernailing, the OK 55.00 strikes easily and maintains a stable, concentrated arc that gives you excellent control over the puddle. The slag system is designed for easy removal, often peeling off on its own, which saves you time on cleanup and reduces the chance of slag inclusions in multi-pass welds.

The 5.0mm size is a beast for filling large grooves and capping heavy plate. It puts down a lot of metal quickly, helping you finish those long structural joints faster. Because it carries the E7018-1 designation, you know it's built for toughness. It's tested to remain ductile even in freezing temperatures, which is why it's a standard for offshore rigs, ships, and heavy machinery repair. If you are welding on dirty or restrained steel, the crack-resistant chemistry of the OK 55.00 gives you an extra margin of safety.

Moisture is the enemy of any low-hydrogen rod, but ESAB's LMA (Low Moisture Absorption) coating helps protect your investment. It resists absorbing humidity from the air longer than standard coatings, keeping your hydrogen levels low and your welds porosity-free. Whether you are running off a shop rectifier or an engine drive in the field, this rod performs consistently on both DC+ and AC, making it a versatile addition to your rod oven.

Why Welders Choose OK 55.00

• Smooth Arc: minimal spatter and excellent puddle clarity.
• Easy Cleanup: Slag lifts easily, reducing chipping time.
• All-Weather Toughness: High impact strength for critical jobs.
• Versatile Power: Runs well on AC or DC+.