Impact-Tested vs Standard Low-Hydrogen Structural Rod
E7018-1 with -50F impact testing vs standard E7018 with -20F testing. Same rod, different certification level.
Which One Should You Use?
Key Differences
| Attribute | E7018-1 | E7018 |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Test Temperature | -50F (-46C) | -20F (-29C) |
| Impact Requirement | 20 ft-lbs min at -50F | 20 ft-lbs min at -20F |
| Chemistry | Identical to E7018 | Standard |
| Arc Characteristics | Identical | Standard |
| Cost | 5-15% more | Standard pricing |
| Code Requirement | AWS D1.1 seismic, cold climate | AWS D1.1 standard |
| Storage | Same rod oven requirements | Same rod oven requirements |
Settings at a Glance
Machine settings and operating characteristics side by side. For full amperage charts, see the individual electrode pages.
| Setting | E7018-1 | E7018 |
|---|---|---|
| Polarity | AC, DCEP | DCEP, AC |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead |
| Penetration | medium | medium |
| Coating | low-hydrogen iron powder | low-hydrogen iron powder |
| Amps at 3/32" | 65-110A | 70-100A |
| Amps at 1/8" | 100-160A | 90-160A |
| Amps at 5/32" | 140-220A | 130-200A |
How E7018-1 and E7018 Work Together
These rods weld identically. The difference is on the test report, not in the puddle. E7018-1 has been tested and certified to pass Charpy impact at -50F (-46C), while standard E7018 is only tested at -20F (-29C). If the WPS or engineer specifies -1, you must use -1. If the code does not require it, standard E7018 is fine and slightly cheaper. In practice, many premium E7018 brands actually meet -1 requirements but are not certified to them.
Common Mistake With Impact-Tested
Assuming standard E7018 will fail at -50F. It might not. But you cannot prove it meets the requirement without the -1 certification. On code work, the paperwork matters as much as the weld. Use what the WPS calls for.
Practical Differences
| Factor | E7018-1 | E7018 |
|---|---|---|
| Common Brands | Excalibur 7018-1 MR, Atom Arc 7018-1 | Excalibur 7018 MR, Jetweld LH-78MR |
Where to Buy
As an Amazon Associate, GageRef earns from qualifying purchases. These are affiliate links.
E7018-1 vs E7018: Common Questions
Which is better, E7018-1 or E7018?
It depends on the joint and your equipment. Key differences: Impact Test Temperature: E7018-1 has -50f (-46c), while E7018 has -20f (-29c). Impact Requirement: E7018-1 has 20 ft-lbs min at -50f, while E7018 has 20 ft-lbs min at -20f. Chemistry: E7018-1 has identical to e7018, while E7018 has standard. Check the spec differences above and pick based on your actual situation.
Can I substitute E7018-1 for E7018?
No. Different rod, different behavior. E7018-1 runs on AC/DCEP, E7018 on DCEP/AC. Your machine decides.
Can I use both E7018-1 and E7018 on the same joint?
These rods weld identically. The difference is on the test report, not in the puddle. E7018-1 has been tested and certified to pass Charpy impact at -50F (-46C), while standard E7018 is only tested at -20F (-29C). If the WPS or engineer specifies -1, you must use -1. If the code does not require it, standard E7018 is fine and slightly cheaper. In practice, many premium E7018 brands actually meet -1 requirements but are not certified to them.
Reference data only. Verify all settings against manufacturer documentation and the applicable welding code before use. Amperage ranges are starting points that vary by position, fit-up, and material. Welding involves serious injury risks including burns, electric shock, fume exposure, and fire. This site does not replace proper training, certification, or employer safety procedures. See full terms of use.
Data sourced from AWS A5.1/A5.1M.