E7016 and E7018 are both low-hydrogen, high-strength SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) electrodes used for structural and pressure welding, but they differ in usability, arc stability, moisture resistance, and application preference. In short, E7018 is the most widely used general-purpose low-hydrogen electrode, while E7016 is a less common, slightly more stable-arc variant often preferred in specific AC welding conditions and root pass control scenarios. Choosing between them depends on base metal type, welding position, required mechanical properties, and site conditions.
Understanding the AWS classification is essential before comparing them:
Both E7016 and E7018 follow the AWS A5.1 electrode classification system:
E = Electrode
70 = Minimum tensile strength of 70,000 psi
1 = All-position welding capability (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead)
6 / 8 = Flux coating type and welding current usability
E7018 is a low-hydrogen iron powder electrode with a smooth, stable arc and high deposition efficiency. It is designed for:
AC or DC+ (DC reverse polarity) operation
High ductility and crack resistance
Structural steel welding with strict quality requirements
E7016 is also a low-hydrogen electrode, but with a different coating formulation that provides:
Better arc stability on AC in some conditions
Slightly softer arc compared to E7018
Good control for root passes and thin sections
Both belong to the same strength class, but their welding behavior differs in practice.
While they share the same tensile strength rating, their performance characteristics vary significantly in real-world welding.
E7018: Very smooth, stable arc with minimal spatter. Ideal for production welding.
E7016: Slightly softer and more controllable arc, especially useful in AC welding systems with unstable power.
Both electrodes are low-hydrogen, but:
E7018: Industry standard for critical welds requiring maximum crack resistance.
E7016: Still low hydrogen but less commonly used in heavy structural codes.
E7018: Contains iron powder → higher deposition rate → faster welding.
E7016: Slightly lower deposition efficiency but better control in root passes.
Both are all-position electrodes, but:
E7018: Preferred for fill and cap passes
E7016: Often chosen for root and positional control work
E7018: Highly sensitive to moisture; must be stored in a heated oven (typically 120–150°C).
E7016: Slightly more forgiving, but still requires dry storage for low-hydrogen performance.
Choosing between E7016 and E7018 depends heavily on the application environment and quality requirements.
Steel structures (buildings, bridges). Pressure vessels and pipelines. Heavy machinery fabrication. Offshore and offshore repair welding. Code-compliant structural welding (AWS D1.1)
Because of its mechanical reliability, E7018 is the default choice in most industrial standards.
Root pass welding where arc control is critical. Thin plate steel fabrication. Repair welding in less controlled environments. AC-only welding machines or unstable power supply conditions
In practice, E7016 electrode is more of a special-use electrode, while E7018 is a general production standard.
Selecting the correct electrode should be based on engineering requirements rather than preference alone. Below is a practical decision framework used in industrial welding operations.
You need certified structural welds. You are welding pressure-bearing components. DC welding power source is available. Maximum tensile strength and ductility are required. You are working under AWS/ASME codes. Then you can choose E7018.
You are using AC welding equipment. You need better arc stability in root passes. You are working with thinner steel sections. Field conditions make arc control difficult.
In many fabrication shops, both are used together:
E7016 → root pass
E7018 → fill and cap passes
This combination improves penetration control while maintaining high structural strength.
Feature | E7016 | E7018 |
Tensile Strength | 70,000 psi | 70,000 psi |
Coating Type | Low-hydrogen rutile blend | Low-hydrogen iron powder |
Arc Stability | Moderate, AC-friendly | Very smooth, stable |
Deposition Rate | Medium | High |
Crack Resistance | High | Very high |
Typical Use | Root pass, AC welding | Structural, production welding |
Storage Requirement | Dry storage | Oven storage required |
No. Both E7016 and E7018 weilding electrodes have the same tensile strength rating (70,000 psi). The difference is in arc behavior and usability, not strength.
In some AC welding scenarios, yes. However, for structural or code-certified work, E7018 is usually required.
Because E7018 offers better arc stability, higher deposition efficiency, and is widely accepted in welding codes.
E7018 is generally easier for consistent production welding, while E7016 may require more control in technique.
Yes. Both are low-hydrogen electrodes and must be stored properly to avoid moisture absorption and hydrogen cracking risks.
