Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 MR in 3/16 in x 14 in, packaged as a 3-pack of 10 lb easy-open cans for the applications described on the Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 MR family page. Same AWS A5.1/A5.1M E7018-1 classification as every other size in this product line, packaged in this format for shop and field crews running this diameter.
| Manufacturer SKU | ED040103 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 3/16 in |
| Length | 14 in |
| Package | 3-pack of 10 lb easy-open cans |
| Net weight | 10 lb each (30 lb total) |
| Approx. rods per package | ~24 per 10 lb container (~72 total) |
| Recommended amperage (this diameter) | 170-260 A |
| AWS classification | AWS A5.1/A5.1M E7018-1 |
Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 MR is an AWS A5.1 E7018-1 H4R low-hydrogen iron-powder basic-coated moisture-resistant SMAW electrode with the -1 suffix designating improved low-temperature impact toughness (20 ft-lb at -50 F minimum). The IronArc product line is Lincoln's value-positioned alternative to Excalibur, delivering the same E7018-1 H4R AWS classification and moisture-resistant coating at a more accessible price point for everyday code-quality fabrication.
Is this the same electrode as the parent Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 MR grade, just in a different package?
Yes. SKU ED040103 is the same AWS A5.1/A5.1M E7018-1 classification as every other size in the Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 MR family. The only difference is diameter (3/16 in) and package format (3 x 10 lb easy-open cans). Polarity, position, and tensile properties are identical to the parent grade.
How many rods are in this 3 x 10 lb easy-open cans?
Approximately ~24 per 10 lb container (~72 total). Exact count varies with manufacturing tolerance but a 3 x 10 lb easy-open cans of 3/16 in Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 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, the H4R moisture-resistant coating tolerates brief atmospheric exposure better than standard low-hydrogen rods, but for code-quality work rods should be stored in a heated rod oven at 250-300 F and rebaked at 500-800 F if exposed beyond 4 hours.
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 IronArc 7018-1 MR share identical mechanical properties (AWS A5.1/A5.1M E7018-1) 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. The H4R designation provides extra moisture-pickup margin but rebaking is still required for code work after extended exposure.
Does this size require a special holder or stinger?
Use an electrode holder rated for the amperage range above (170-260 A). Most general-purpose stinger holders (e.g. 300-500 A class) handle 3/16 in Lincoln IronArc 7018-1 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 IronArc 7018-1 MR may be available in a Buy America compliant version - see the parent grade page for all available compliance variants.