7014 Welding Rod vs 7018 – Smooth Deposition or Maximum Strength?
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Last Updated: January 2026
When welders talk about 7014 vs 7018, it usually turns into a discussion about feel versus function. Both rods are common, both can make strong welds, and both have their place. But once you strike an arc, they behave very differently. One runs smooth and fast. The other slows you down and demands more focus—but pays it back in strength. Knowing which one fits the job keeps you from choosing convenience when reliability really matters.
👉 If you want the big picture before diving into specifics, this best welding rods guide breaks down the most common electrodes and when each one makes sense.
🔍 What 7014 vs 7018 Means in Welding
Those numbers aren’t just labels—they hint at how each rod is meant to be used.
7014 welding rod is an iron-powder, rutile-based electrode. It produces a smooth, stable arc with a thick, easy-to-control puddle. The added iron powder boosts deposition, letting you lay down weld metal quickly with less effort. It runs well on AC or DC and doesn’t punish minor technique mistakes.
7018 welding rod is a true low-hydrogen electrode built for strength and crack resistance. The arc is softer and more controlled, and the puddle takes more attention to manage. You’ll see 7018 specified for structural steel, heavy fabrication, and code work where weld integrity is non-negotiable.
🔍 Why the Difference Matters on Real Jobs
On real jobs, these rods solve different problems.
7014 shines in flat and horizontal positions where speed, smooth beads, and ease of use matter. It’s common in production work and general shop welding where efficiency and consistency keep things moving.
7018 is chosen when strength, ductility, and long-term reliability are critical. It’s the safer pick for structural joints, heavy equipment repair, and any weld where cracking would be a serious issue.
Using 7014 where 7018 is required often results in welds that look good at first—but don’t hold up under load.
🔍 Common Mistakes Welders Make
One common mistake is assuming 7014 and 7018 are interchangeable because their tensile ratings look similar. In practice, hydrogen control and intended use make a big difference.
Storage is another problem area. While 7014 is fairly forgiving, 7018 must be kept dry to maintain its low-hydrogen properties. Moisture exposure increases the risk of hydrogen cracking, even if the weld looks fine.
Some welders also default to 7014 simply because it runs easier, even when the joint really calls for the added reliability of 7018.
👉 If electrode numbers still feel confusing, this welding rod number meaning guide explains what those digits actually tell you.
📦 How to Choose Between 7014 and 7018
A simple rule covers most situations:
- Use 7014 for flat or horizontal welds, higher deposition, and easier operation
- Use 7018 for structural work, critical joints, and low-hydrogen requirements
7014 makes sense when productivity and smooth beads are the priority. 7018 is the better choice when weld performance matters more than speed.
In many shops, both rods stay on hand because they serve different stages or types of work.
💰 Cost, Strength, and Performance Considerations
7014 and 7018 rods are usually priced close to each other, but they’re built for different outcomes.
7014 offers faster metal deposition, smoother beads, and less fatigue during long runs. It’s efficient and forgiving, especially in flat positions.
7018 delivers better crack resistance, ductility, and long-term strength. It’s slower and more demanding, but trusted for work where failure isn’t an option.
Neither rod is better overall—each one is designed to solve a specific problem.
📌 Key Takeaways
- 7014 welding rod is smooth, fast, and easy to run
- 7018 welding rod focuses on strength and low-hydrogen performance
- 7014 works best for flat and horizontal production welding
- 7018 is preferred for structural and code-quality welds
- Choosing the right rod prevents hidden failures later
🟢 FAQs
Q: Is 7014 as strong as 7018?
Both have similar tensile ratings, but 7018 offers better crack resistance and ductility.
Q: Can I use 7014 instead of 7018 for structural work?
Not usually. Many structural jobs specify 7018 due to low-hydrogen requirements.
Q: Is 7014 easier to weld than 7018?
Yes. 7014 is generally smoother and more forgiving, especially in flat positions.
Q: Does 7018 need to be stored in a rod oven?
Yes. Keeping 7018 dry is critical to maintaining weld quality.
✅ Conclusion
The 7014 vs 7018 welding rod choice comes down to smooth deposition versus maximum strength. 7014 keeps production moving with clean beads and easy handling. 7018 trades convenience for reliability, making it the better option for structural and critical welds. Knowing when to use each one helps you avoid rework and make welds that hold up long after the job is done.
