Lincoln Excalibur 8018-C3 MR in 3/16 in x 14 in, packaged as a 50 lb easy-open can for the applications described on the Lincoln Excalibur 8018-C3 MR family page. Same AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C3 classification as every other size in this product line, packaged in this format for shop and field crews running this diameter.
| Manufacturer SKU | ED030895 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3/16 in |
| Length | 14 in |
| Package | 50 lb easy-open can |
| Net weight | 50 lb |
| Approx. rods per package | ~120 rods |
| Recommended amperage (this diameter) | 160-250 A |
| AWS classification | AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C3 |
E8018-C3 is an AWS A5.5 low-alloy low-hydrogen SMAW electrode with 80 ksi minimum tensile and a 1.0% nickel addition for moderate low-temperature toughness. Common applications include weathering steels (ASTM A588), bridge fabrication, and structural service to -40 F. Runs DC+ or AC in all positions.
Is this the same electrode as the parent Lincoln Excalibur 8018-C3 MR grade, just in a different package?
Yes. SKU ED030895 is the same AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C3 classification as every other size in the Lincoln Excalibur 8018-C3 MR family. The only difference is diameter (3/16 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 ~120 rods. Exact count varies with manufacturing tolerance but a 50 lb easy-open can of 3/16 in Lincoln Excalibur 8018-C3 MR 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?
3/16 in is well-suited for high-deposition flat and horizontal work on heavy plate. 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 Excalibur 8018-C3 MR share identical mechanical properties (AWS A5.5/A5.5M E8018-C3) 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 (160-250 A). Most general-purpose stinger holders (e.g. 300-500 A class) handle 3/16 in Lincoln Excalibur 8018-C3 MR 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 Excalibur 8018-C3 MR may be available in a Buy America compliant version - see the parent grade page for all available compliance variants.