Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 in 1/4 in x 18 in, packaged as a 50 lb easy-open can for the applications described on the Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 family page. Same AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C1 classification as every other size in this product line, packaged in this format for shop and field crews running this diameter.
| Manufacturer SKU | ED030880 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 1/4 in |
| Length | 18 in |
| Package | 50 lb easy-open can |
| Net weight | 50 lb |
| Approx. rods per package | ~70 rods |
| Recommended amperage (this diameter) | 250-370 A |
| AWS classification | AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C1 |
E8018-C1 is an AWS A5.5 low-alloy low-hydrogen SMAW electrode with 80 ksi minimum tensile and a 2.5% nickel addition for improved low-temperature impact toughness. It is specified for low-temperature service vessels, LNG piping, and arctic structural fabrication where Charpy V-notch impact properties at -75 F or below are required. Runs DC+ or AC in all positions with the same low-hydrogen storage and rebake discipline as E7018.
See all sizes of Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 family
Is this the same electrode as the parent Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 grade, just in a different package?
Yes. SKU ED030880 is the same AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C1 classification as every other size in the Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 family. The only difference is diameter (1/4 in) and package format (50 lb easy-open can). Polarity, position, and tensile properties are identical to the parent grade.
How many rods are in this 50 lb easy-open can?
Approximately ~70 rods. Exact count varies with manufacturing tolerance but a 50 lb easy-open can of 1/4 in Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 typically contains in this range.
What is the shelf life if I do not use them all?
Sealed cans have an indefinite shelf life when stored unopened in a dry environment. Once opened, low-hydrogen rods exposed beyond 4 hours of atmospheric humidity should be rebaked at 500-800 F for 1-2 hours or stored in a heated rod oven at 250-300 F to restore full code performance.
What diameter should I use for common applications?
1/4 in is well-suited for heavy flat deposition on very thick plate and high-throughput fabrication. Heavier base metal and higher deposition typically calls for one diameter up; thinner sheet and root passes go one diameter down. See the parent grade page for full diameter-to-amperage guidance.
Can I mix this size with other diameters on the same job?
Yes, provided your procedure qualification (WPS) covers the diameter range. Many shops use one diameter for root, one for fill, and one for cap. All sizes within Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 share identical mechanical properties (AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C1) so weld metal chemistry is consistent across passes.
Do I need to rebake these after the can is opened?
Yes for code-quality work. Per AWS D1.1 and most pressure-vessel codes, low-hydrogen electrodes exposed to atmosphere beyond 4 hours must be rebaked at 500-800 F for 1-2 hours or stored in a heated rod oven at 250-300 F to restore full code performance.
Does this size require a special holder or stinger?
Use an electrode holder rated for the amperage range above (250-370 A). Most general-purpose stinger holders (e.g. 300-500 A class) handle 1/4 in Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 without issue. For sustained high-amperage runs on larger diameters, a 500 A or higher holder is recommended.
Is this Buy America compliant?
This specific SKU is not the Buy America variant. Lincoln E8018-C1 (Excalibur 8018-C1 MR x 14 may be available in a Buy America compliant version - see the parent grade page for all available compliance variants.