E6013 vs E7018: Which Stick Electrode Should You Use?
E6013 and E7018 are the two most common stick (SMAW) electrodes — and they're built for very different jobs. Reach for the wrong one and you'll fight the arc or, worse, put a weak weld into a load-bearing joint. Here's the short answer, then the detail.
Quick answer
| E6013 | E7018 | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Sheet metal, light fabrication, general repair, beginners | Structural, high-strength, code-governed and crack-sensitive welds |
| Tensile strength | 60,000 psi | 70,000 psi |
| Type | Rutile, easy-running | Low-hydrogen, iron-powder |
| Arc feel | Soft, easy to control | Smooth but stiffer; needs technique |
| Storage | Forgiving | Must stay dry (moisture-sensitive) |
E6013 — the easy all-rounder
E6013 lights easily, runs a soft, stable arc, and is forgiving on thin material and imperfect fit-up. That makes it the go-to for sheet metal, light fabrication, maintenance, and anyone learning to weld. It runs on AC or DC (either polarity), so it works on inexpensive buzz-box machines. Penetration is shallow-to-moderate — ideal for thin steel, not for thick structural joints.
E7018 — the structural workhorse
E7018 is a low-hydrogen rod with iron powder in the flux, producing strong, ductile, crack-resistant welds at 70,000 psi tensile. It's the standard for structural steel, pressure work, and any code-governed or high-restraint joint where hydrogen cracking is a risk. It runs best on DC+ (some AC-rated versions exist) and lays a smooth, flat bead — but it's less tolerant of rust, gaps, and sloppy technique than E6013.
The big difference: low-hydrogen and storage
E7018's flux absorbs moisture from the air, and moisture means hydrogen — the enemy of strong welds. Keep E7018 in a sealed container or a rod oven; don't run rods that have sat out in humidity. E6013 is far more forgiving and fine for general shelf storage. This is why HYW stocks electrodes in hermetically sealed cans for long shelf life.
Which should you buy?
- Thin steel, repairs, learning, AC machine → E6013
- Structural, high-strength, code work, thicker steel → E7018
- Doing both? Many shops keep both on hand — they cover different jobs.
FAQ
Is E7018 stronger than E6013?
Yes — 70 ksi vs 60 ksi, plus better ductility and crack resistance. For structural and load-bearing work, use E7018.
Can a beginner use E7018?
It's harder to run than E6013 (drag technique, keep a tight arc). Beginners often start on E6013, then move to E7018 for structural practice.
Why does E7018 need to stay dry?
Its low-hydrogen flux absorbs moisture, which can cause hydrogen cracking. Store sealed or in a rod oven.
Welding produces fumes and UV radiation. Always follow proper safety practices, ventilation, and PPE, and weld to your applicable procedure or code.