**8018-C3 vs 8018-W Stick Electrodes: Product Review & Buying Guide**

When it comes to welding low-alloy steels, choosing the right stick electrode is crucial for achieving strong, reliable welds. Two popular options—8018-C3 and 8018-W—offer distinct advantages depending on your project’s requirements. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

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**Performance**

*8018-C3* electrodes are renowned for their excellent mechanical properties, especially at low temperatures. They provide high ductility and impact strength, making them ideal for critical structural applications. The arc is stable, and slag removal is generally easy, resulting in smooth, clean welds.

*8018-W* electrodes are specifically designed for welding weathering steels (like ASTM A588 and A242). They offer good weldability and produce welds that match the corrosion resistance of the base metal. The arc is smooth, and the slag is easy to remove, but the welds may not be as tough at low temperatures as those made with 8018-C3.

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**Composition**

*8018-C3* contains about 1% nickel, which enhances toughness and low-temperature performance. This makes it suitable for applications where the weld will be exposed to cold environments or dynamic loading.

*8018-W* is alloyed with small amounts of copper and other elements to match the composition of weathering steels. This ensures that the weld metal develops a protective oxide layer, just like the base metal, for superior atmospheric corrosion resistance.

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**Applications**

*8018-C3* is best suited for structural welding in bridges, buildings, and pressure vessels, especially where low-temperature service is expected. It’s also a good choice for heavy equipment repair and fabrication.

*8018-W* is the go-to electrode for welding weathering steels used in outdoor structures, such as bridges, transmission towers, and architectural features. Its corrosion resistance makes it ideal for projects exposed to the elements.

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**Pros and Cons**

*8018-C3 Pros:*
– Excellent low-temperature toughness
– High ductility and strength
– Versatile for various structural applications

*8018-C3 Cons:*
– Not specifically designed for weathering steels
– Slightly higher cost due to nickel content

*8018-W Pros:*
– Matches corrosion resistance of weathering steels
– Good weldability and appearance
– Ideal for outdoor structures

*8018-W Cons:*
– Lower impact toughness at low temperatures
– Limited to weathering steel applications

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**Who Should Buy Which?**

Choose *8018-C3* if you need superior toughness and strength, especially in cold climates or for critical structural work. Opt for *8018-W* if you’re working with weathering steels and require welds that will resist atmospheric corrosion over time.

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**What Makes Them Unique**

*8018-C3* stands out for its low-temperature performance, while *8018-W* is unique in its ability to match the corrosion resistance of weathering steels. Both offer reliable weldability and are trusted by professionals for their respective applications.

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**Conclusion**

Selecting between 8018-C3 and 8018-W depends on your project’s specific needs—whether it’s low-temperature toughness or corrosion resistance. Both are excellent choices within their domains, ensuring strong, durable welds.
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Washington Alloy 8018-C3 10lbs Welding Stick Electrode (1/8″)

• AWS: A5.5
• 10 LB Package – 8018-C3
• 1/8″ Stick Electrode
• Tensile Strength (psi) 80,000
• Yield Strength (psi) 68-80,000

$98.36

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Last update on 2025-07-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

MIG Welding Mild Steel: Optimal 70S-6 Settings for Strong, Clean Welds

Introduction

MIG welding mild steel with ER70S-6 wire is a common process in fabrication, repair, and manufacturing due to its efficiency and versatility. Achieving strong, clean welds requires selecting the correct settings for your welding machine. Key parameters include wire diameter, voltage, amperage, wire feed speed, and shielding gas composition. For 70S-6 wire, which contains higher levels of deoxidizers for improved weld quality on slightly contaminated or rusty steel, recommended settings vary based on material thickness and welding position. Proper adjustment of these variables ensures optimal penetration, minimal spatter, and a smooth, consistent weld bead.

Shielding Gas Selection And Flow Rates For 70S-6 Wire On Mild Steel

When MIG welding mild steel with 70S-6 wire, the selection of shielding gas and the adjustment of flow rates are critical factors that directly influence weld quality, appearance, and overall process efficiency. Shielding gas serves the essential function of protecting the molten weld pool from atmospheric contamination, which can lead to defects such as porosity, excessive spatter, and weak welds. Therefore, understanding the appropriate shielding gas mixtures and their optimal flow rates is fundamental for achieving consistent and high-quality results when working with 70S-6 wire on mild steel.

The most commonly used shielding gas for MIG welding mild steel with 70S-6 wire is a mixture of argon and carbon dioxide. The standard blend, often referred to as C25, consists of 75% argon and 25% carbon dioxide. This mixture strikes a balance between arc stability, penetration, and minimal spatter, making it highly suitable for a wide range of applications. The argon component provides a smooth, stable arc and helps produce a clean, aesthetically pleasing weld bead, while the carbon dioxide enhances penetration and improves the mechanical properties of the weld. For applications where deeper penetration is required, a higher percentage of carbon dioxide, such as an 80/20 or even 100% CO₂, may be used. However, it is important to note that increasing the carbon dioxide content can lead to a rougher weld appearance and increased spatter, which may necessitate additional post-weld cleaning.

In addition to the argon-carbon dioxide blends, some specialized applications may call for the use of tri-mix gases, which incorporate small amounts of oxygen or helium. These mixtures can further refine arc characteristics and bead appearance, but for most general mild steel welding with 70S-6 wire, the 75/25 argon-carbon dioxide blend remains the preferred choice due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness.

Once the appropriate shielding gas has been selected, attention must be given to setting the correct flow rate. The flow rate is typically measured in cubic feet per hour (CFH) and is a crucial parameter that ensures adequate coverage of the weld pool without excessive turbulence. For MIG welding mild steel with 70S-6 wire, a flow rate in the range of 20 to 30 CFH is generally recommended. This range provides sufficient shielding under most conditions, including indoor environments with minimal air movement. However, if welding is performed outdoors or in areas with significant drafts, it may be necessary to increase the flow rate slightly to compensate for the potential loss of shielding gas coverage. Conversely, setting the flow rate too high can create turbulence, drawing in atmospheric air and leading to contamination of the weld.

It is also important to regularly inspect the gas delivery system for leaks or blockages, as these can compromise shielding effectiveness regardless of the flow rate setting. Using a flowmeter rather than relying solely on regulator pressure gauges can help ensure accurate and consistent gas delivery. By carefully selecting the appropriate shielding gas mixture and maintaining the recommended flow rates, welders can optimize the performance of 70S-6 wire on mild steel, resulting in strong, clean, and visually appealing welds. This attention to detail not only enhances the quality of the finished product but also contributes to greater efficiency and reliability in the welding process.

Optimizing Voltage And Wire Feed Speed For 70S-6 MIG Welding

When it comes to MIG welding mild steel with 70S-6 wire, achieving optimal results depends heavily on selecting the appropriate voltage and wire feed speed settings. These two parameters work in tandem to control the heat input, penetration, and overall quality of the weld. Understanding how to fine-tune these settings is essential for both novice and experienced welders seeking consistent, high-quality welds.

To begin with, voltage in MIG welding primarily influences the arc length and the shape of the weld bead. A higher voltage setting produces a flatter, wider bead with less penetration, while a lower voltage results in a narrower, more convex bead with deeper penetration. For 70S-6 wire, which is known for its excellent deoxidizing properties and ability to handle mill scale or slightly rusty surfaces, the recommended voltage range typically falls between 16 and 22 volts for most mild steel applications. However, the exact voltage required will depend on the thickness of the material being welded. For thinner materials, such as 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) or less, a voltage setting on the lower end of this range is advisable to prevent burn-through. Conversely, thicker materials may require higher voltage to ensure adequate fusion and penetration.

Wire feed speed, on the other hand, determines the rate at which the filler metal is supplied to the weld pool. This setting directly affects the amperage, which in turn influences the heat input and deposition rate. For 70S-6 wire, the wire feed speed should be matched to the selected voltage and the diameter of the wire being used. For example, when using a common wire diameter such as 0.030 inch (0.8 mm), a typical starting point for wire feed speed might be around 300 inches per minute (ipm) for welding 1/8 inch mild steel at approximately 18 volts. As the material thickness increases, both the voltage and wire feed speed should be increased proportionally to maintain a stable arc and achieve the desired weld profile.

It is important to note that the relationship between voltage and wire feed speed is not linear; rather, they must be balanced to avoid common welding defects. If the wire feed speed is set too high relative to the voltage, the result may be excessive spatter, poor arc stability, and a lack of fusion. Conversely, if the voltage is too high for the given wire feed speed, the arc may become erratic, leading to undercutting or a lack of penetration. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the manufacturer’s recommended settings as a baseline and then make incremental adjustments based on the specific welding conditions.

In addition to these primary settings, factors such as shielding gas composition, travel speed, and torch angle also play a role in the final weld quality. However, by focusing on optimizing voltage and wire feed speed for 70S-6 MIG welding, welders can significantly improve their control over the welding process. Regular practice, combined with careful observation of the weld bead and sound, will further aid in fine-tuning these parameters. Ultimately, mastering the interplay between voltage and wire feed speed is key to producing strong, clean welds on mild steel with 70S-6 wire.

Essential MIG Welding Settings For 70S-6 Wire On Mild Steel

When it comes to MIG welding mild steel, selecting the appropriate settings is crucial for achieving strong, clean welds. The 70S-6 wire is a popular choice among welders due to its excellent deoxidizing properties and ability to handle mill scale or slightly rusty surfaces. However, to fully leverage the benefits of this wire, it is essential to understand and apply the correct MIG welding settings. These settings include voltage, wire feed speed, shielding gas composition, and other key parameters that directly influence weld quality.

To begin with, the voltage setting plays a significant role in determining the arc characteristics and penetration. For 70S-6 wire on mild steel, the recommended voltage typically ranges from 16 to 22 volts, depending on the thickness of the material being welded. Thinner materials, such as 1/16 inch (1.6 mm), generally require lower voltages around 16 to 18 volts, while thicker sections up to 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) may necessitate voltages closer to 20 to 22 volts. Adjusting the voltage within this range helps maintain a stable arc and prevents issues such as excessive spatter or lack of fusion.

Equally important is the wire feed speed, which controls the amount of filler metal delivered to the weld pool. For 70S-6 wire, the wire feed speed should be matched to the voltage and material thickness. As a general guideline, a wire feed speed of 150 to 300 inches per minute (IPM) is suitable for most mild steel applications. For example, welding 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) mild steel with 0.030 inch (0.8 mm) diameter wire typically requires a wire feed speed of around 200 to 250 IPM. Fine-tuning the wire feed speed ensures proper bead shape and penetration, while also minimizing the risk of burn-through or cold lap.

In addition to voltage and wire feed speed, the choice of shielding gas is another critical factor. The most common shielding gas mixture for MIG welding mild steel with 70S-6 wire is 75% argon and 25% carbon dioxide (C25). This blend offers a good balance between arc stability, spatter control, and weld appearance. For applications where deeper penetration is required, a higher percentage of carbon dioxide, such as 100% CO2, can be used, though this may result in increased spatter and a slightly rougher bead. The recommended gas flow rate typically falls between 20 and 30 cubic feet per hour (CFH), ensuring adequate coverage of the weld area.

Furthermore, selecting the correct wire diameter is essential for optimal performance. The most commonly used diameters for 70S-6 wire are 0.023 inch (0.6 mm), 0.030 inch (0.8 mm), and 0.035 inch (0.9 mm). Thinner wires are better suited for lighter gauge materials, while thicker wires are preferable for heavier sections. Matching the wire diameter to the application helps maintain control over the weld pool and reduces the likelihood of defects.

Finally, it is important to consider travel speed and electrode extension, as these parameters also impact weld quality. Maintaining a consistent travel speed and keeping the electrode extension between 3/8 and 1/2 inch (10-13 mm) helps produce uniform welds with minimal porosity. By carefully adjusting these essential MIG welding settings for 70S-6 wire on mild steel, welders can achieve strong, aesthetically pleasing welds that meet the demands of a wide range of fabrication projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MIG welding mild steel with 70S-6 wire requires careful selection of settings to achieve optimal results. Recommended parameters typically include using a shielding gas mixture of 75% argon and 25% CO₂, a wire diameter of 0.030″–0.035″, voltage settings between 17–22 volts, and wire feed speeds ranging from 200–400 inches per minute, depending on material thickness. Proper adjustment of these settings ensures good penetration, minimal spatter, and strong, clean welds on mild steel.

“8018 vs 9018 vs 11018 Welding Rods: Strength, Versatility, and the Right Choice for Every Weld.”

Introduction

When selecting the right welding rod for a project, understanding the differences between 8018, 9018, and 11018 electrodes is crucial. Each of these low-hydrogen rods offers unique mechanical properties, tensile strengths, and recommended applications, making them suitable for specific welding tasks and industry standards. This comparison will break down the key characteristics, advantages, and ideal uses of 8018, 9018, and 11018 welding rods to help you determine which one best fits your welding requirements.

Performance Comparison Of 8018, 9018, And 11018 Welding Electrodes

When evaluating the performance of 8018, 9018, and 11018 welding electrodes, it is essential to consider several key factors, including tensile strength, ductility, usability, and the specific requirements of the welding project. Each of these low-hydrogen electrodes is designed to meet particular standards and applications, and understanding their differences can help welders make informed decisions about which rod to use for a given task.

To begin with, the 8018 electrode is widely recognized for its versatility and reliability in welding medium-strength carbon steels. It offers a minimum tensile strength of 80,000 psi, making it suitable for structural welding, fabrication, and repair work where moderate strength is required. The 8018 rod is also known for its excellent arc stability and ease of use, which allows for smooth weld beads and minimal spatter. Its low-hydrogen coating helps reduce the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking, a critical consideration when working with thicker materials or in environments where moisture control is challenging.

Transitioning to the 9018 electrode, one finds a step up in terms of tensile strength, as this rod is rated for a minimum of 90,000 psi. This increased strength makes the 9018 electrode a preferred choice for applications involving higher-strength steels, such as those used in heavy equipment, pressure vessels, and certain types of bridges. The 9018 rod maintains the low-hydrogen characteristics of the 8018, ensuring similar resistance to cracking and porosity. However, the higher alloy content in the 9018 electrode can result in slightly reduced ductility compared to the 8018, which may be a consideration in projects where flexibility and impact resistance are paramount. Nevertheless, the 9018 electrode provides a good balance between strength and weldability, making it a popular option for demanding structural applications.

Moving further up the scale, the 11018 electrode is engineered for the most demanding welding tasks, offering a minimum tensile strength of 110,000 psi. This rod is typically reserved for high-strength, low-alloy steels used in critical structures such as high-rise buildings, bridges, and pressure-containing components. The 11018 electrode’s robust mechanical properties ensure that welded joints can withstand significant stress and loading without failure. However, with increased strength comes a greater need for precise control over welding parameters and preheat or post-weld heat treatment, as the risk of cracking and reduced ductility becomes more pronounced. The 11018 rod is less forgiving than its lower-strength counterparts, requiring skilled operators and strict adherence to welding procedures to achieve optimal results.

In comparing the performance of these three electrodes, it becomes clear that the choice depends largely on the specific requirements of the project. For general fabrication and repair work where moderate strength is sufficient, the 8018 electrode offers an excellent combination of usability and performance. When higher strength is necessary, particularly in heavy construction or pressure applications, the 9018 rod provides a suitable upgrade without sacrificing too much ductility. For the most critical and high-stress applications, the 11018 electrode delivers unmatched strength, albeit with increased demands on technique and process control. Ultimately, selecting the appropriate welding rod involves balancing strength, ductility, and ease of use to ensure the integrity and longevity of the welded structure.

Choosing The Right Welding Rod: 8018 Vs 9018 Vs 11018

Selecting the appropriate welding rod is a critical decision that can significantly impact the quality, strength, and durability of a welded joint. When comparing the 8018, 9018, and 11018 welding rods, it is essential to understand the unique properties and intended applications of each to make an informed choice. Each of these rods is designed for specific types of steel and welding conditions, and their differences can influence the outcome of your project.

To begin with, the 8018 welding rod is a low-hydrogen, iron powder electrode commonly used for welding high-strength, low-alloy steels. It is known for its excellent arc stability, minimal spatter, and ease of slag removal. The “80” in its designation refers to its minimum tensile strength of 80,000 psi, making it suitable for structural welding where moderate strength is required. The 8018 rod is often chosen for its versatility and ability to produce sound welds in all positions, including vertical and overhead. Its low-hydrogen coating helps prevent hydrogen-induced cracking, which is particularly important when working with steels that are susceptible to this type of failure.

In contrast, the 9018 welding rod offers a higher tensile strength, rated at 90,000 psi, and is also a low-hydrogen electrode. This rod is typically used for welding higher-strength steels, such as those found in heavy equipment, pressure vessels, and critical structural components. The increased strength of the 9018 rod makes it a preferred choice when the welded joint must withstand greater loads or more demanding service conditions. Additionally, the 9018 rod maintains good weldability and produces a ductile, crack-resistant weld, which is essential for applications where safety and reliability are paramount.

Moving to the 11018 welding rod, this electrode is engineered for even higher strength applications, with a minimum tensile strength of 110,000 psi. Like the previous rods, it features a low-hydrogen coating, which is crucial for preventing hydrogen embrittlement in high-strength steels. The 11018 rod is often specified for welding quenched and tempered steels, such as those used in bridges, cranes, and other structures where maximum strength is required. However, it is important to note that as the strength of the electrode increases, so does the need for careful control of preheat, interpass temperature, and post-weld heat treatment to avoid issues such as cracking or loss of toughness.

When choosing between the 8018, 9018, and 11018 welding rods, several factors should be considered. The most important is the strength requirement of the base metal and the intended service conditions of the welded structure. For general structural work where moderate strength is sufficient, the 8018 rod is often adequate and offers ease of use. For applications demanding higher strength and toughness, the 9018 rod provides a good balance between weldability and performance. In cases where the highest strength is necessary, the 11018 rod is the appropriate choice, provided that proper welding procedures are followed to mitigate the risks associated with welding high-strength steels.

Ultimately, the selection of the right welding rod depends on a thorough understanding of the project requirements, the properties of the base metal, and the specific characteristics of each electrode. By carefully evaluating these factors, welders can ensure that they choose the most suitable rod for their application, resulting in strong, reliable, and long-lasting welds.

Key Differences Between 8018, 9018, And 11018 Welding Rods

When selecting the appropriate welding rod for a specific project, understanding the key differences between 8018, 9018, and 11018 electrodes is essential. Each of these rods is designed to meet particular requirements in terms of strength, composition, and application, making it crucial for welders to recognize their unique characteristics. By examining the composition, mechanical properties, and intended uses of these electrodes, one can make an informed decision about which rod best suits a given welding task.

To begin with, the numerical designation of each rod provides valuable information about its properties. The first two digits indicate the minimum tensile strength of the weld metal in thousands of pounds per square inch (psi). For instance, the 8018 rod offers a minimum tensile strength of 80,000 psi, the 9018 provides 90,000 psi, and the 11018 delivers an impressive 110,000 psi. This difference in tensile strength is a primary factor in determining which rod to use, as projects requiring higher strength will naturally benefit from the use of a rod with a higher numerical designation.

Moving beyond tensile strength, the third digit in each rod’s designation refers to the welding position for which the electrode is suitable. In the case of 8018, 9018, and 11018 rods, the “1” indicates that all are designed for use in all positions, offering versatility for a wide range of welding scenarios. The final two digits, “18,” reveal that these rods have a low-hydrogen, iron powder coating. This coating is significant because it reduces the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking, making these electrodes ideal for welding high-strength steels and critical structures where weld integrity is paramount.

Despite these similarities, there are notable differences in the chemical composition of each rod. The 8018 electrode is typically used for welding low-alloy, high-strength steels and is known for its good ductility and impact resistance, even at low temperatures. The 9018 rod, on the other hand, contains additional alloying elements such as nickel, which enhance its toughness and make it suitable for applications where higher impact resistance is required, such as in the construction of bridges or pressure vessels. The 11018 electrode stands out for its even higher alloy content, often including both nickel and molybdenum, which not only increases tensile strength but also improves resistance to atmospheric corrosion and extreme service conditions.

Another important distinction lies in the intended applications of these rods. The 8018 is commonly chosen for general structural welding, pipeline work, and situations where moderate strength and good toughness are needed. The 9018 is preferred for more demanding structural applications, particularly where higher strength and impact resistance are necessary. In contrast, the 11018 is reserved for the most critical applications, such as heavy equipment manufacturing, high-pressure piping, and structures subjected to severe stress or low temperatures.

In summary, while 8018, 9018, and 11018 welding rods share certain characteristics, their differences in tensile strength, chemical composition, and intended use set them apart. By carefully considering the specific requirements of a welding project, including the desired strength, toughness, and environmental conditions, welders can select the most appropriate electrode to ensure both the quality and durability of their work.

Conclusion

8018, 9018, and 11018 welding rods are all low-hydrogen electrodes designed for high-strength welds, but they differ in tensile strength and specific applications. 8018 rods are suitable for general structural welding with a tensile strength of 80,000 psi, making them ideal for most construction and repair work. 9018 rods offer higher tensile strength at 90,000 psi and are preferred for more demanding structural applications or where higher strength is required. 11018 rods provide the highest tensile strength at 110,000 psi and are used in critical, high-stress environments such as heavy equipment, bridges, and pressure vessels. The choice depends on the required strength, code specifications, and the application’s demands: use 8018 for standard structural work, 9018 for higher-strength needs, and 11018 for the most demanding, high-strength applications.