S125051-035 - Hobart Hoballoy E7018-A1 5/32" Stick Electrode 50lb Can

Technical Overview of Hobart Hoballoy 7018-A1

The Hobart Hoballoy 7018-A1 is a premium quality, low-hydrogen, iron powder electrode designed specifically for the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) of carbon-molybdenum steels. Conforming to AWS A5.5 specifications under the E7018-A1 classification, this electrode is engineered to deposit weld metal containing nominally 0.50% Molybdenum. This alloying element is critical for applications requiring enhanced creep resistance and tensile strength at elevated service temperatures, making it an essential consumable for the fabrication and repair of pressure vessels, boilers, and high-pressure piping systems.

Metallurgically, the inclusion of Molybdenum transforms the microstructure of the weld deposit, allowing it to maintain mechanical integrity in high-heat environments where standard carbon steel electrodes would degrade. The electrode features a moisture-resistant coating that ensures low diffusible hydrogen levels (typically under 4ml/100g), significantly reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC) and cold cracking in the heat-affected zone (HAZ). The iron powder addition in the coating improves deposition efficiency, allowing for higher travel speeds and increased productivity during heavy fabrication tasks.

This 5/32-inch (4.0mm) diameter variant operates effectively on both Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP) and Alternating Current (AC). It provides a tensile strength of at least 70,000 psi and a yield strength of 57,000 psi, meeting the rigorous demands of industrial codes such as ASME Section I and Section VIII. The 50lb hermetically sealed can ensures the electrodes remain in factory-fresh condition, preventing moisture pickup prior to use, which is paramount for maintaining the low-hydrogen status required for critical code work.

Operators and welding engineers specify Hoballoy 7018-A1 when working with base metals such as ASTM A204 (Grade A), A335 (Grade P1), and similar C-Mo alloys. Its ability to produce X-ray quality welds with excellent bead contour and minimal spatter makes it a reliable choice for critical infrastructure projects in the petrochemical, power generation, and heavy manufacturing sectors.