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What is 7018 MR welding rod used for?
Need clean, high-strength welds that resist cracking?
The 7018 MR welding rod is used for structural steel, pressure vessels, and code welding—offering low-hydrogen properties with added moisture resistance for field and shop environments.
Let’s break down what "MR" means, how it compares to other rods, and when to use it.
What is a 7018 rod good for?
7018 is the go-to for strong, clean, and reliable welds.
7018 rods are ideal for structural steel, bridges, buildings, and any application requiring low-hydrogen welds and high tensile strength.
One Prime client in Canada uses 7018 exclusively for load-bearing I-beam connections. Every weld passes ultrasonic testing and meets CSA and AWS standards.
Key benefits of 7018
- Smooth arc with minimal spatter
- Easy slag removal
- High strength (≥70,000 psi tensile)
- All-position welding (flat, vertical, overhead)
- Excellent impact resistance at low temperatures
| Application | Why 7018 Works Well |
|---|---|
| Structural steel | High strength + low hydrogen |
| Pressure vessels | Crack-resistant, defect-free welds |
| Trailer frames | Smooth beads, fatigue resistance |
| Heavy equipment | Deep fusion + visual weld appeal |
At Prime, we stock 7018 rods for ISO-certified welding projects, complete with batch-level traceability.
What is 7018 MR?
It's standard 7018—upgraded for the real world.
7018 MR (Moisture Resistant) is a low-hydrogen electrode designed to resist moisture absorption, reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking in critical welds.
We supplied MR-grade rods to a Middle Eastern refinery project where humidity was high and storage ovens limited. The rods performed flawlessly—even under inspection-level welds.
What makes 7018 MR different?
- Same strength and weld quality as 7018
- Added resistance to ambient moisture
- Ideal for field welding or limited rod oven setups
- Meets AWS A5.1 E7018 MR spec
| Feature | Standard 7018 | 7018 MR |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture absorption | Must be oven-dried | Delayed moisture uptake |
| Storage requirement | Strict | Slightly more forgiving |
| Use environment | Controlled shops | Outdoor/field work |
Prime supplies 7018 MR electrodes with sealed packaging for job sites that need flexibility without compromising weld integrity.
What are 7014 welding rods used for?
When you want a smooth arc and easy handling.
7014 welding rods are used for general-purpose welding of clean mild steel, offering high deposition rates and ease of use in flat and horizontal positions.
A fabrication client in Eastern Europe uses 7014 for manufacturing trailer hitches—it provides speed and good weld appearance, without the strict moisture control of 7018.
When to choose 7014
- Light to medium fabrication
- Clean steel surfaces
- Projects needing fast deposition and easy cleanup
| Rod Feature | 7014 Advantage |
|---|---|
| Iron powder coating | High deposition rate |
| Easy slag removal | Fast post-weld cleanup |
| Smooth arc | Great for beginners and training |
Prime includes 7014 in production welding kits where speed and consistency matter more than extreme structural demands.
What are 6011 welding rods used for?
The field welder’s first choice.
6011 rods are used for welding dirty, rusty, or painted metal where deep penetration and arc flexibility are required—especially on AC welders.
A U.S. agricultural equipment repair shop we support uses 6011 for everything from mower decks to steel gates—no need for grinding or pre-cleaning.
6011 rod highlights
- Excellent for AC and DC
- Penetrates through rust and grime
- Ideal for repair work and out-of-position welding
- Requires whip-and-pause technique for best results
| Use Case | Why 6011 Is Ideal |
|---|---|
| Farm repair | Works on old, dirty steel |
| Fencing and trailers | Fast, deep welds with rough prep |
| Vertical welds | Fast-freeze puddle control |
Prime provides 6011 as part of rugged field welding kits, where reliability and flexibility are key.
Conclusion
7018 MR rods offer the strength and low-hydrogen reliability of standard 7018—with added moisture resistance for tougher environments.
Need the right rods for structural work or unpredictable field conditions? Contact Prime today through our website. We deliver ISO-certified welding consumables, expert advice, and fast global shipping—trusted by professionals worldwide.
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