Skip to Main Content
Canadian
Canadian owned and operated

31-18 - 1/8" Universal Maintenance Welding Rod - Dissimilar Steel Repair Electrode

Packaging: 1 lb tube
$42.60/lb

Usually ships within 3-5 business days

OVERVIEW

The Ultimate Maintenance Problem Solver

When you are out in the field or working in the maintenance shop, you don't always know the exact grade of steel you are repairing. The 1/8" 3-in-1 Welding Rod is designed specifically for these scenarios. Often referred to as a "problem solver" or "universal" electrode, this rod is engineered to weld practically any steel to any other steel. Whether you are joining mild steel to stainless, repairing high-carbon tool steel, or fixing a broken leaf spring, this electrode provides a high-strength, crack-resistant bond that you can rely on.

At Josef Gas, we understand that downtime is costly. This rod eliminates the guesswork associated with selecting the right filler metal for unknown base materials. It features a specialized high-alloy core wire and a unique flux coating that produces a smooth, stable arc on both AC and DC power sources. The deposit offers extremely high tensile strength—often exceeding 120,000 PSI—making it far stronger than standard E7018 or E6011 rods. It is the perfect addition to any maintenance welder's toolkit, ensuring you are prepared for whatever repair job comes through the door.

Exceptional Versatility

The "3-in-1" designation refers to its ability to handle three main categories of challenges: joining dissimilar metals, welding hard-to-weld steels (like spring or tool steel), and performing build-up applications on worn parts. It runs smoothly with minimal spatter and produces a bead that is both corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant. If you have a broken shaft, a cracked gear tooth, or a sheared bolt, this is the rod to grab.

Key Benefits

  • High Strength: Delivers welds with superior tensile strength for heavy-duty repairs.
  • All-Position: Easy to control in flat, vertical, and overhead positions.
  • Forgiving Arc: Welds through contaminants like rust, grease, and paint better than standard rods.
Additional Information
Packaging Description:1 lb tube
Weld Process:Electrode, Electrode (electrode)
Grade:NA, Steel (steel)
Packaging:n/a
Brand:n/a
Diameter:1/8" (3.2mm), 3.2mm, 3.2mm (3-2mm)
Position:All Position (all-position), n/a
Polarity:DC+ / AC (dc-ac), NA
Rod Type:Specialty Maintenance Stick Electrode
Tensile Strength:~120,000 PSI
Amperage Range:80 - 120 A
Applications:Dissimilar Steels, Spring Steel, Tool Steel
Welding Position:Flat, Horizontal, Overhead, Vertical
----- new values below ----
Rod Type:Specialty Maintenance Stick Electrode
Diameter:1/8" (3.2mm)
Tensile Strength:~120,000 PSI
Amperage Range:80 - 120 A
Applications:Dissimilar Steels, Tool Steel, Spring Steel
Welding Position:Flat, Horizontal, Vertical, Overhead
brand:Josef
diameter:3.2mm (3-2mm)
weld-process:Electrode (electrode)
polarity:DC+ / AC (dc-ac)
position:All Position (all-position)
grade:Steel (steel)

INCLUDED

  • 1/8" 3-in-1 Specialty Welding Rods
  • Protective Packaging

APPLICATIONS

  • Repairing broken leaf springs and drive shafts
  • Joining dissimilar metals (e.g., Stainless to Mild Steel)
  • Extracting broken bolts and studs
  • Repairing tool and die steels
  • Maintenance on heavy machinery and farm equipment
  • Welding unknown grades of steel

FAQ

It can weld almost all steels, including mild steel, stainless steel, spring steel, tool steel, manganese steel, and dissimilar combinations of these.

A range of 80 to 120 Amps is typically recommended, depending on the thickness of the material and the welding position.

Yes, the 3-in-1 rod is designed to run smoothly on both AC and DC+ (Reverse Polarity) current.

While it can bond to cast iron in emergency situations, a dedicated Nickel rod is recommended for cast iron repairs to prevent cracking. The 3-in-1 is best for steel-to-steel applications.

The weld deposit has high corrosion resistance, similar to stainless steel, so it will resist rusting much better than mild steel welds.

While not as sensitive as low-hydrogen (7018) rods, it is best to keep them dry. If they become damp, re-baking at 250°F for an hour can restore performance.

Yes, the weld deposit is machinable, although it can work-harden. It is tough but can be drilled, turned, or ground.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet