Welding with a 7018 electrode in a vertical position can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to welding or haven’t had much experience with vertical-up or vertical-down techniques. The 7018 is a low-hydrogen, all-position electrode that produces strong, clean welds with minimal spatter.
But when you’re working in a vertical position, gravity becomes a challenge, and controlling the weld pool requires a steady hand and the right technique.
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I’ve spent years welding with 7018 rods, and I know firsthand that it takes practice to master vertical welding. But once you understand the proper settings, motion, and preparation, you’ll be able to lay down solid, structurally sound welds even in difficult positions.
Let’s go through everything you need to know about welding 7018 vertically, including techniques, tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Understanding the 7018 Electrode
Before we get into vertical welding, let’s talk about the 7018 electrode itself.
- 70 – This means the electrode produces welds with a tensile strength of 70,000 psi.
- 1 – The electrode can be used in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead).
- 8 – The coating contains iron powder and a low-hydrogen flux, providing a smooth arc and minimal spatter.
The 7018 is known for creating strong, ductile welds with excellent crack resistance. It must be kept dry because moisture can compromise its low-hydrogen properties. Always store these rods in a rod oven or a sealed container when not in use.
Vertical-Up vs Vertical-Down Welding with 7018
When welding in a vertical position, you have two options: welding uphill (vertical-up) or downhill (vertical-down).
- Vertical-up is preferred for structural welding because it produces deeper penetration and stronger welds.
- Vertical-down is faster but is generally only used for thin metals where deep penetration isn’t needed.
For 7018 electrodes, vertical-up welding is the best approach because it ensures better fusion, penetration, and strength.
How to Prepare for 7018 Vertical Welding
Good preparation makes a huge difference in the quality of your weld. Here’s what you need to do before striking an arc:
Clean the Metal
The 7018 electrode works best on clean metal. Remove any rust, paint, mill scale, and oil from the surface using a wire brush, grinder, or sandpaper.
Set the Right Amperage
The amperage setting depends on the diameter of the electrode and the thickness of the metal. Here’s a general guide:
| Electrode Diameter | Recommended Amperage |
|---|---|
| 3/32″ (2.4mm) | 80-120A |
| 1/8″ (3.2mm) | 110-160A |
| 5/32″ (4.0mm) | 150-200A |
| 3/16″ (4.8mm) | 180-250A |
Start at the lower end of the range and increase the amperage if needed. Too much heat can make the weld uncontrollable, while too little heat leads to lack of fusion.
Choose the Right Travel Speed
The travel speed should be slow and controlled. Moving too fast can result in weak welds, while moving too slow can cause excessive buildup and poor penetration.
Techniques for Welding 7018 in a Vertical Position
Welding vertically requires a steady hand and good control of the puddle. Here’s how to do it right:
Electrode Angle
- Hold the electrode at a slight upward angle (5-15 degrees) pointing towards the direction of travel.
- This angle helps control the puddle and prevents undercutting on the edges of the weld.
Motion and Weave Patterns
There are a few different weave techniques used for vertical-up welding with 7018:
- Zig-Zag Weave – Move the rod side to side in a zig-zag pattern, pausing slightly at the edges to ensure good fusion.
- Triangle Weave – Make small triangular motions as you move upward. This works well for thicker metal.
- Upside-Down V – Move in a V-shape, ensuring each pass has even distribution.
For thinner materials, a straight stringer bead with a small weave can be effective. Avoid excessive weaving, as it can cause uneven penetration and a weak weld.
Pause at the Sides
Each time you reach the edge of the weld, pause briefly before moving back across. This allows the metal to fuse properly and prevents undercutting.
Watch the Puddle
- Keep an eye on the leading edge of the puddle, not just the arc.
- Control the puddle by adjusting travel speed and angle.
Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced welders make mistakes. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
1. Undercutting – This happens when the edges of the weld are too thin.
- Solution: Slow down and pause at the edges longer.
2. Lack of Fusion – The weld doesn’t properly bond with the base metal.
- Solution: Use the right amperage and ensure proper cleaning before welding.
3. Excessive Spatter – Small bits of metal spray out of the weld.
- Solution: Reduce amperage slightly and maintain a consistent arc length.
4. Poor Penetration – The weld sits on top of the metal without fusing deeply.
- Solution: Increase heat and use a steady weave motion.
Finishing the Weld
After completing the weld, let it cool naturally. Avoid quenching it in water, as this can cause cracking. Use a slag hammer and wire brush to clean off the slag before applying another pass if necessary.
Safety Tips for 7018 Vertical Welding
Welding vertically comes with some additional safety concerns. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Wear a welding helmet with a proper shade level to protect your eyes.
- Use fire-resistant clothing to prevent burns from falling slag.
- Keep your workspace well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Secure your workpiece properly so it doesn’t move during welding.
Conclusion
Welding 7018 in a vertical position takes patience and practice, but once you get the technique down, it becomes much easier. The key is to set the right amperage, use a steady travel speed, and control the puddle with proper weaving techniques.
Vertical-up welding with 7018 produces strong, high-quality welds, making it a preferred method for structural and heavy-duty applications.
If you take your time and practice regularly, you’ll master the art of 7018 vertical welding and be able to tackle any project with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best amperage for 7018 vertical welding?
It depends on the electrode size, but for 1/8″ rods, 110-160A is a good range.
Should I weld 7018 vertical-up or vertical-down?
7018 should always be welded vertical-up for better penetration and strength.
Why does my 7018 rod keep sticking?
This happens if your amperage is too low or your arc length is too short. Try increasing heat and maintaining a steady arc.
Can I weld thin metal with 7018 vertically?
7018 is best for medium to thick metal. For thin metal, a different electrode like 6013 might be better.
How do I prevent undercut when welding 7018 vertical?
Slow down, pause at the edges, and keep a consistent weave motion.
