5500604000 - ESAB OK 55.00 E7018-1 6.0mm Low Hydrogen Stick Electrode

Premium Reliability with ESAB OK 55.00 E7018-1 Electrodes

The ESAB OK 55.00 is a high-performance, low-hydrogen stick electrode engineered for the most demanding structural and marine applications. Classified as an AWS E7018-1, this electrode is renowned for its superior mechanical properties, particularly its exceptional impact toughness at low temperatures. This makes it an indispensable consumable for industries where weld integrity cannot be compromised, such as offshore construction, shipbuilding, and heavy pressure vessel fabrication. The 6.0mm diameter variant is specifically designed for heavy deposition rates, allowing professional welders to fill large joints efficiently while maintaining the highest metallurgical standards.

One of the defining characteristics of the OK 55.00 is its remarkable resistance to hot cracking. This feature is critical when welding high-strength steels and thick sections where thermal stresses are significant. The electrode features a basic coating that ensures a weld metal with very low hydrogen content, significantly reducing the risk of cold cracking (hydrogen-induced cracking). It is particularly suitable for welding high-strength ships steel of grades A, D, and E, ensuring that the structural integrity of marine vessels is maintained even under harsh operating conditions. The formulation of the flux coating also assists in producing a stable, concentrated arc that is easy to control, even at the higher amperages required for a 6.0mm rod.

In addition to its mechanical robustness, the ESAB OK 55.00 offers excellent operability. Welders appreciate the smooth arc transfer and the ease with which the slag can be removed, often detaching in large pieces to reveal a clean, high-quality bead profile. The electrode operates effectively on both Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP), providing flexibility depending on the power source available in the shop or field. For critical applications requiring X-ray quality welds, the OK 55.00 delivers consistent, defect-free results that pass rigorous inspection standards.

Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain the low-hydrogen characteristics of these electrodes. While they are manufactured with moisture-resistant capabilities, using a rod oven to keep them dry prior to use is recommended for code-quality work. Whether you are repairing heavy earth-moving equipment or fabricating structural beams for a skyscraper, the ESAB OK 55.00 6.0mm electrode provides the deposition power and metallurgical assurance needed for heavy-duty success.