E6013 vs E7018 Welding Electrodes: Differences and Uses
E6013 vs E7018 electrodes compared: AWS classification, strength, coating type, hydrogen level, positions, storage and baking, and which to use for structural steel.
Saudi Steel Work Editorial Team · · 3 min read
Short answer: E6013 is a rutile-coated general-purpose electrode that is easy to use and gives a smooth finish, suitable for light fabrication and sheet metal. E7018 is a low-hydrogen electrode with higher tensile strength (70 ksi) and better toughness, required for most structural, pressure and critical welds. E7018 must be kept dry in holding ovens.
E6013 and E7018 are the two most common stick electrodes in Saudi workshops. They are not interchangeable.
Reading the AWS classification (AWS A5.1)
- E — electrode
- 60 / 70 — minimum tensile strength in ksi (60 ksi ≈ 430 MPa; 70 ksi ≈ 490 MPa)
- 1 — all-position
- 3 / 8 — coating type and current
Comparison
| Feature | E6013 | E7018 |
|---|---|---|
| Coating | Rutile (high titania potassium) | Low-hydrogen (iron powder, potassium) |
| Min. tensile | 60 ksi | 70 ksi |
| Impact toughness | Not required | Required (Charpy at −29 °C / −20 °F) |
| Hydrogen | Not controlled | Low |
| Ease of use | Very easy, smooth arc | Requires more skill |
| Appearance | Smooth, fine ripples | Good |
| Storage | Dry storage | Holding oven after opening |
| Typical use | Light fabrication, gates, sheet | Structural, pressure, critical welds |
Why low hydrogen matters
Hydrogen absorbed into welds can cause delayed cracking, especially in thicker sections and higher-strength steels. E7018's coating minimises hydrogen — but only if electrodes stay dry.
Storage and baking
- Store sealed packs in dry conditions
- Once opened, keep E7018 in a holding oven at the manufacturer's recommended temperature
- Re-bake exposed electrodes per manufacturer instructions
- Discard contaminated or damaged electrodes
Saudi coastal humidity makes oven discipline especially important.
Choosing
- Load-bearing structural welds: E7018 (or other low-hydrogen processes) per the WPS
- Light non-structural fabrication: E6013
- Stainless steel: matching stainless electrodes (e.g. E308L, E316L)
See welding processes and our welding consumables.