ED038115 - Lincoln Easyarc 7018-1 4.0mm Low Hydrogen Electrode

Technical Overview: Lincoln Electric Easyarc 7018-1

The Lincoln Electric Easyarc 7018-1 is a premium quality, low-hydrogen, iron powder type electrode designed for the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process. Assigned the internal SKU ED038115, this specific variant features a 4.0mm diameter, making it highly suitable for filling joints in thicker sections of mild and low-alloy steels. The electrode conforms to AWS A5.1 specifications, carrying the E7018-1 classification. The "-1" suffix denotes improved impact properties, ensuring the weld metal retains toughness even at temperatures as low as -45°C (-50°F), a critical requirement for industries operating in cold environments or subject to dynamic loading.

One of the defining technical characteristics of the Easyarc 7018-1 is its Moisture Resistant (MR) coating. Hydrogen induced cracking (cold cracking) is a significant failure mode in high-strength steel welding. The MR coating formulation minimizes the absorption of atmospheric moisture into the flux, thereby maintaining low diffusible hydrogen levels in the weld deposit (typically H4 or H8 status depending on storage). This feature is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of critical connections in pressure vessels, bridges, and heavy machinery.

Operability is optimized for Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP), although it can be used with Alternating Current (AC) power sources that provide sufficient open circuit voltage. The iron powder addition in the coating assists in higher deposition rates compared to non-iron powder electrodes, improving travel speeds and overall efficiency. The 4.0mm diameter typically operates in the amperage range of 135A to 220A, providing deep penetration and robust fusion profiles. Metallurgically, the deposit offers a tensile strength exceeding 490 MPa (70 ksi), aligning with the requirements for welding steels such as ASTM A36, A516 Grade 70, and other common structural grades.

In industrial procurement, the Easyarc 7018-1 is favored for its balance of performance and cost-effectiveness. It provides consistent X-ray quality welds, ensuring compliance with rigorous non-destructive testing (NDT) standards found in the petrochemical, power generation, and shipbuilding sectors.