S422044-033 - Hobart 7018 XLM 1/8" Stick Electrodes (10lb Can)

Hobart 7018 XLM Stick Electrode Overview

The Hobart 7018 XLM is a premium carbon steel stick electrode designed for critical welding applications requiring high-quality deposits and superior mechanical properties. Classified as an AWS E7018-1 H4R electrode, this product features an iron powder coating that significantly enhances deposition rates compared to standard low-hydrogen electrodes. The "XLM" designation stands for Extra Low Moisture, ensuring the coating resists moisture pick-up in humid environments, which is crucial for preventing hydrogen-induced cracking in high-strength steels. This electrode is engineered to operate efficiently on both Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP) and Alternating Current (AC), providing versatility across various power sources.

Ideally suited for heavy industrial sectors, the Hobart 7018 XLM excels in structural steel fabrication, offshore rig construction, and petrochemical plant maintenance. Its formulation supports welding in all positions, including difficult vertical-up and overhead welds, making it a reliable choice for field erections where positioning cannot always be controlled. The 1/8-inch (3.2 mm) diameter is a standard size for general purpose structural work, offering a balance between deposition rate and heat input. Packaged in a 10-pound hermetically sealed can, the electrodes are protected from atmospheric moisture until opened, ensuring factory-fresh performance right out of the container.

Technical specifications include compliance with AWS A5.1 and ASME SFA 5.1 standards. The H4R designator indicates less than 4ml of diffusible hydrogen per 100g of weld metal and moisture resistance testing, making it a safe choice for welding low-alloy structural steels where hydrogen control is paramount. The electrode produces a weld metal with excellent impact toughness, meeting the rigorous demands of code-quality work in mining, shipbuilding, and railcar manufacturing.