SMAW · Carbon steel
E6018
A low-hydrogen rod at the 60 ksi strength level, chosen when a moisture-controlled deposit is needed but the base metal does not call for 70 ksi weld metal.
What the designation means
- E
- Electrode for shielded metal arc welding.
- 60
- 60,000 psi minimum tensile strength, matching lower strength base metals.
- 1
- All positions.
- 8
- Low-hydrogen potassium covering carrying iron powder, run on alternating current or direct current electrode positive.
At a glance
| Process | SMAW |
|---|---|
| Family | Carbon steel |
| Positions | All positions |
| Polarity | AC or DCEP |
| Shielding | Self-shielded by the covering |
| Minimum tensile strength | 60 ksi |
Typical uses
- Joints on lower strength carbon steels where matching strength is specified
- Crack-sensitive repairs that still need controlled hydrogen
- Weld procedures that call for a 60 ksi low-hydrogen consumable by classification
How it runs
- Smooth, quiet low-hydrogen arc with moderate penetration
- Dense slag that releases cleanly once the bead cools
- Slightly convex, evenly rippled bead
- Lower deposit strength than the 70 ksi low-hydrogen family with similar handling
Storage and handling
Treat as a low-hydrogen consumable. Move rods from the sealed container into a heated rod oven, keep exposure time short, and rebake per the manufacturer schedule if the rods sit out.
Compare with
SMAWE7018The workhorse structural low-hydrogen rod, giving a smooth arc, a moisture-controlled deposit, and the crack resistance that heavy sections and restrained joints demand.SMAWE7016A low-hydrogen rod with a tighter, less fluid puddle than its iron powder relative, which is why many pipe welders prefer it for vertical and overhead fills.SMAWE7028A low-hydrogen rod built for downhand production, combining moisture-controlled weld metal with the deposition rate of a heavy iron powder covering.