6013 vs. 7018: How To Decide for Your Next Weld

If you’re a welder, choosing between 6013 vs 7018 welding rods can spark some strong opinions. Picking the right rod isn’t just about following the rules—it can totally change how your weld turns out.

The 6013 rod is a favorite for beginners, especially when the metal’s a little dirty or rusty. But if you’re after tough, reliable welds and have the right machine, the 7018 rod is hard to beat. With its thicker coating and unique burn, it stands out in any shop.

Curious which rod will help you nail your next project? Read on to learn about the real differences and find your perfect match!

6013 vs 7018 Welding Rods: Comparison Table

Choosing between 6013 and 7018 welding rods can affect the strength and quality of your welds. Use this handy table to quickly see the main differences and find out which rod fits your project best.

Quick Tips:

• Choose 6013 for easy use, quick repairs, or thin, slightly dirty metal.

• Choose 7018 for strong, clean welds on big or critical jobs, if your machine can handle it.

Need help choosing the right welding rod? Get tips by reading our article, What Welding Rod to Use: A Beginner's Guide. Also, don’t forget to check our full collection of welding electrodes for top options.

6013 vs 7018: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

When picking between 6013 and 7018 welding rods, you should look at how they work and what they are used for. Both rods are common in stick welding, but they are not the same.

6013 rods are best when you want easy starts and a smooth weld. They work well with smaller, less powerful welders and are good on thin metals. The arc is soft, and you don't have to be an expert to get decent results.

7018 rods, on the other hand, need more power but give you much stronger welds. They have a thicker flux coating, which helps protect the weld.

You often use 7018 rods for bigger jobs or projects that have to be very strong, like building frames or heavy supports.

Here is a quick comparison table:

Pick 6013 if your welder is not very strong or if you are learning. Go for 7018 when you need strong welds and your machine can handle more amps.

If your project needs top strength and durability, you should use 7018. If it's a quick repair or a small job, 6013 works fine.

Want a detailed comparison of stick welding electrodes? Our article: Comparing Stick Welding Electrodes for Your Project covers everything you need.

6013 vs 7018: Strength, Penetration, and Weld Quality Compared

When you compare 6013 and 7018 rods, the biggest differences are in strength and performance.

The 7018 rod is a low hydrogen rod. It offers higher tensile strength, rated at 70,000 psi, which means it can handle more stress without breaking. In contrast, the 6013 rod has a tensile strength of 60,000 psi.

Weld penetration is another key factor. The 7018 rod gives you deeper penetration, allowing the weld to fuse well with thicker metal.

The 6013 rod offers medium penetration and is better for thin or clean metal. If you need ductility or flexibility in the finished weld, 7018 is usually a better choice. Welds made with 7018 rods are less likely to crack because they bend a bit before breaking.

Here is a quick comparison:

6013 rods are easier to use for beginners and re-strike easily. They work well with both AC and DC power.

7018 rods need storage care to avoid moisture but make stronger welds with cleaner beads. You might choose 6013 for light, basic repairs. For structural jobs or anything where strength matters, you'll want 7018.

Still not sure which welding rod is right for you? Find clear answers by reading our article, Welding Rod Types Explained: How To Choose the Right One.

6013 vs 7018: Ease of Use and Best Applications

When picking welding rods for your project, it’s important to look at how easy they are to use.

6013 rods are usually easier for beginners. They work well with small welders and low power.

If you are welding thin metal or making quick repairs on mild steel, the 6013 welding rod is a good choice. You can use it with both AC and DC welding.

7018 rods need more skill and a stronger welder. These rods have a thicker flux coating. They are mostly used for jobs that need more strength, like in construction or heavy repairs.

7018 rods are better for DC welding, but they can also work with AC if your machine allows.

Here’s a quick comparison:

If you need smooth beads with less splatter, 6013 rods are helpful. For welding thick metal that needs to last, 7018 rods are the better pick.

You might choose 6013 for small repairs at home, while 7018 works best for big projects or when strong welds are required. Each rod has its place, and the right one depends on the job.

Curious about how different filler alloys affect your welds? Discover more with our article, 4043 vs. 5356: Key Differences in Aluminum Welding Filler Alloys.

Frequently Asked Questions on 6013 vs 7018

Is 7018 a strong weld?

Yes, 7018 rods make strong welds. People use them a lot for structural work and in situations where welding certifications are required.

7018 rod welds can handle high stress and have a smooth finish when done right.

Which is better, 6011 or 7018?

6011 rods work better if the metal is rusty or dirty because they can burn through more contamination. 7018 rods are better for clean metal and stronger welds.

Many professionals use 7018 for critical jobs where weld strength and a good appearance matter.

Can you drag 6013?

Yes, you can drag a 6013 rod. It is designed for both dragging and light weaving. 6013 rods are more forgiving, so they work well for beginners or smaller projects that do not need deep penetration.

Why is my 7018 sticking?

7018 rods often stick if the work surface is dirty, or if your amperage is too low. Make sure the metal is clean and dry. Use the correct settings on your welder and keep a steady hand to avoid sticking.

What is the hardest welding to learn?

TIG welding is often seen as the hardest to learn. Stick welding, especially with rods like 6010 or 7018, can also be tricky at first. It takes good hand control and practice to make neat welds, especially for certification tests.