ED038113 - Lincoln Easyarc 7018-1 Low Hydrogen Stick Electrode 2.5mm

Technical Overview of Lincoln Easyarc 7018-1

The Lincoln Electric Easyarc 7018-1 is a premium quality, basic-coated, low-hydrogen electrode designed for the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process. It is engineered to meet the stringent requirements of the AWS A5.1 E7018-1 classification. The primary technical differentiator of the E7018-1 designation, as opposed to the standard E7018, is its superior impact toughness at lower temperatures. This electrode is tested to provide excellent Charpy V-Notch impact properties typically down to -45°C, making it an essential consumable for projects where brittle fracture resistance is a critical design parameter.

With a diameter of 2.5mm, this electrode is particularly well-suited for welding thinner sections of plate or for root passes in heavy multi-pass weldments. The coating is formulated with iron powder, which increases deposition rates and improves arc stability. Crucially, the "MR" (Moisture Resistant) characteristic of the coating minimizes the rate of moisture absorption from the atmosphere. This is a vital feature for preventing hydrogen-induced cracking (cold cracking) in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of high-strength carbon-manganese and low-alloy steels. Proper storage and handling, including the use of rod ovens, remain recommended practices to maintain these low-hydrogen properties.

The Easyarc 7018-1 operates efficiently on Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP), providing deep penetration and a consistent weld profile. It is an all-position electrode, capable of producing radiographic-quality welds in flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions. The chemical composition of the weld metal is tightly controlled to ensure consistent mechanical properties, including a minimum tensile strength of 70,000 psi. Applications include the fabrication of pressure vessels, offshore platforms, heavy structural steel, piping systems, and heavy machinery repair where code compliance and weld integrity are non-negotiable.