S125558-035 - Hobart Hoballoy E9018-B3 Low Alloy Stick Electrode 3/16"

Technical Overview of Hobart Hoballoy 9018-B3

The Hobart Hoballoy 9018-B3 is a premium low-alloy shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) electrode designed specifically for the joining of 2.25% Chromium, 1% Molybdenum steels. This electrode is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of high-temperature service environments found in the power generation and petrochemical industries. Compliant with AWS A5.5 specifications, the E9018-B3 classification ensures that the weld deposit provides exceptional creep resistance and tensile strength, typically exceeding 90,000 psi, which is critical for components subjected to prolonged elevated temperatures and high pressures.

The electrode features a basic, low-hydrogen coating that significantly reduces the potential for hydrogen-induced cracking (cold cracking), a common concern when welding hardenable low-alloy steels. The 3/16-inch diameter is optimized for fill and cap passes on heavy-wall piping and thick-section pressure vessels, allowing for higher deposition rates compared to smaller diameters. The chemical composition is tightly controlled to ensure consistent mechanical properties and metallurgical compatibility with P22 (2-1/4 Cr-1 Mo) base materials. This makes it an essential consumable for the fabrication and repair of steam headers, superheaters, and heat exchangers.

Metallurgically, the deposit maintains its toughness and ductility even after post-weld heat treatment (PWHT), which is standard practice for Cr-Mo steels to relieve residual stresses and temper the heat-affected zone. The Hobart Hoballoy 9018-B3 is formulated to operate on both Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP) and Alternating Current (AC), providing flexibility in power source selection. Its hermetically sealed 50lb can packaging ensures the low-hydrogen characteristics are preserved during storage and transport, adhering to strict moisture control protocols required for critical code work.