Welding is a technique to connect two metals and has a vast use in this modern era. Amongst the different types of welding, arc welding is the most common one. It uses electric power to generate heat and thus melt metals. This type of welding uses a welding rod to generate that heat.
In the world of arc welding, 7014 and 7018 welding rods are two common names. They both have similar welding features. And yet it often gets difficult to distinguish between these two. So, I am here to talk about their differences. Keep reading and explore the 7014 vs 7018 welding rods.
What is a 7014 welding rod?
7014 welding rod is an arc welding rod coated with Titania and Iron powder. It is mostly used to weld low metal alloys. This is why it is used in household welding. It provides a good deposition and pretty easy to use.
Specifications:
- Code: AWS A5.1 ASME SFA 5.1, F-3, A-1
- Current: DC & AC
- Diameter: 3/32”, 1/8”, 5/32”, 3/16”
What is 7018 welding rod?
7018 welding rod is also an arc welding rod and also known as a low hydrogen electrode. It is used to weld crap or high sulfur steel. Like the 7014 rods, it also provides a good deposition. However, it is a bit sophisticated to handle and not recommended for armature users. (Read more about 6011 Vs 6013 Welding Rods).
7014 vs 7018 welding rods
It is a bit difficult to distinguish between these two electrodes because both of these arc welding rods come with almost the same features. Especially the features like the tensile strength, positions, arc characteristics, motion, etc.
They both have the same tensile strength which is 70000 PSI. Except for the vertical downhill, both of them can be used in any position. Both have the same arc characteristics which is a soft arc. Both work in drag motion.
So, what makes them different from each other? Follow this article to get the answer. I will break down each distinct feature of these two. So, let’s get started with the 7014 vs 7018 welding rods. (Read more about 1/8 vs 3/32 Welding Rods).
Storage condition
7018 welding consists of low hydrogen coating. This makes it unsuitable to store in a moist or damp environment. Storing 7018 welding rod in moist areas will affect its low hydrogen coatings. This characteristic is the reason why it is kept in the oven before use.
Whereas, 7014 welding rod is of titanium coating. It can be stored in moist or damp conditions. Moisture will not affect it to that extent. So, in terms of storage conditions, 7014 is more comfortable than the 7018 welding rod. (Read more about: Welding rod ovens)
Flux coating
These two have different flux coating. This one is the only structural difference between the two welding rods. 7018 has a low hydrogen coating of potassium iron. It is specially designed to weld steel that consists of high carbon. (Read more about welding vs electrician).
So it makes sense why it has the coating of low hydrogen. While 7014 has the coating of titanium iron powder.
Usability
Well, 7014 welding rod is mostly used in small projects or for household welding because of its ease of handling and use. It is more commonly used by beginner welders.
While 7018 welding rod is mostly used by professionals. It is a bit sophisticated and may not be compatible for use by beginner.
Fast freezing
7018 has a fast freezing capability while 7014 doesn’t. This feature of 7018 added an advantage for the welder to be able to work in an uncomfortable position. (Check details about: 7013 Welding)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between 7018 and 7014?
7018 and 7014 welding rods have similar strength. However, their coatings are different. The 7018 welding rod is used to weld steel with high carbon to prevent hydrogen cracking while 7014 is used in welding low alloy metal.
7018 is sensitive to moisture, whereas 7014 works well even in a damp environment.
What is the strongest welding rod?
E70 models are believed to be the strongest welding rod. They can provide a minimum tensile strength of 70000 psi. Examples of E70 series welding rods are E7014 and E7018.
Verdict
These electrodes have very few structural differences. However, these little differences serve very crucial purposes. And I think you also wondered that. If you are a beginner, I would suggest you use the 7014 welding rod.
So, that’s it for the 7014 vs 7018 welding rods. I have talked about the key differences here and I hope it helped you.
