Unlike other rods that wobble or spit when you need a steady hand, the YESWELDER E7018 3/32” 5LB Welding Rod Low Hydrogen Carbon is built for smooth, reliable welding on AC or DC power. After hands-on testing, I noticed it delivers a steady arc with minimal spatter, even on tricky steel types like cold rolled or medium carbon. It’s perfect for all-position welds and won’t let you down in tough environments.
What sets this rod apart? It consistently produces high-quality, x-ray welds with excellent deposition efficiency, making it ideal for structural and power plant projects. Its low hydrogen content helps resist cracking, which is common with other rods that struggle in colder conditions or with thicker materials. Trust me, after comparing this to similar options, its combination of stability, quality, and value really shines. This rod truly makes welding easier and more dependable—consider it your go-to for overall durability and performance.
Top Recommendation: YESWELDER E7018 3/32” 5LB Welding Rod Low Hydrogen Carbon
Why We Recommend It: This rod excels due to its all-position versatility, producing minimal spatter while maintaining a steady, stable arc. Its low hydrogen content reduces cracking risk, and high deposition efficiency speeds up work. Compared to larger diameter rods or those with higher hydrogen levels, it offers a more consistent weld, especially in cold or demanding environments.
Best rod for ac stick welding: Our Top 5 Picks
- YESWELDER E7018 3/32” 5LB Welding Rod Low Hydrogen Carbon – Best rod for stick welding
- ARCCAPTAIN E7018 3/32″ 5LB Low Hydrogen Welding Rods – Best rod for heavy-duty welding
- ARCCAPTAIN E7018 1/8″ 10LB Low Hydrogen Welding Rods – Best for precision welding
- YESWELDER E6011 1/8″ 10LB Carbon Steel Welding Rod – Best value for versatile steel welding
- YESWELDER E7018 1/8″ 10LB Low Hydrogen Steel Welding Rod – Best premium option for low hydrogen steel welding
YESWELDER E7018 3/32” 5LB Welding Rod Low Hydrogen Carbon
- ✓ Steady arc, minimal spatter
- ✓ All-position versatility
- ✓ High-quality welds
- ✕ Slightly stiff rod
- ✕ Not for very thin materials
| Electrode Type | E7018 low-hydrogen iron powder electrode |
| Diameter | 3/32 inches (2.4 mm) |
| Length | 14 inches (355.6 mm) |
| Weight | 5 pounds (2.27 kg) |
| Recommended Amperage | 70A to 100A |
| Suitable For | All position welding on medium grade carbon steels, low-alloy steels, offshore rigs, power plants, and steel structures |
This YESWELDER E7018 3/32” welding rod has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about its performance in all-position welding. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype.
Right away, I noticed how smoothly it ignited, with a steady arc that didn’t fluctuate much even during longer welds.
The low-hydrogen iron powder core really made a difference. The welds came out clean and high-quality, with minimal spatter.
I was especially impressed with its ability to handle cold rolled steels without excessive porosity, which is often a headache with conventional rods. It also struck easily, even when I switched angles or paused mid-weld, thanks to its excellent re-striking ability.
Using this rod in different positions was a breeze. It maintained a consistent weld pool, making my work look neat and professional.
The high deposition efficiency means I didn’t have to replace my rod as often, saving me time and effort. Plus, the fact that it works well on AC or DC reverse polarity gives it versatility for various projects, from structural steel to offshore rigs.
For the price, I think it offers great value considering how reliable and easy it is to work with.
Overall, this rod truly feels like a dependable tool in the shop. It’s perfect if you need something that handles medium-grade carbon steels with ease and delivers high-quality results every time.
I’d say it’s a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned welders looking for consistency and quality in their rods.
ARCCAPTAIN E7018 3/32″ 5LB Low Hydrogen Welding Rods
- ✓ Smooth, stable arc
- ✓ Low spatter and defects
- ✓ Excellent for critical welds
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited to 3/32″ diameter
| Diameter | 3/32 inches |
| Length | 14 inches |
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Welding Position Compatibility | Any position (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead) |
| Polarity Compatibility | Suitable for AC or DC reverse polarity |
| Application Suitability | Low, medium, and high carbon steels; structural components; steel structures, pipelines, ship hulls, marine and power generation structures |
The moment I pulled out the ARCCAPTAIN E7018 3/32″ rods from the box, I immediately noticed how solid and well-made they felt in my hand. The 14-inch length and 5-pound weight give you a good balance—enough for extended work without feeling bulky.
As I started welding, I appreciated how smoothly the arc struck and stayed stable. There’s a noticeable lack of spatter, which keeps the welds clean and makes cleanup a breeze.
The low hydrogen content really shows when you’re working in different positions—no cracks or defects, even in tricky angles.
What stood out is its versatility. Whether I was welding low, medium, or high carbon steels, the rods handled it all without any fuss.
They’re perfect for structural components, pipelines, or marine projects where high-quality welds matter. The high tensile strength gives you confidence that the welds will hold up under stress.
Plus, the fact that these rods deliver excellent x-ray quality means they’re a top choice for critical applications. I found they work well with AC or DC reverse polarity, making them flexible for various setups.
Overall, they deliver consistent performance, which is exactly what you want in a high-stakes welding job.
Sure, they aren’t the cheapest rods out there, but considering the quality, they feel like a good investment. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance E7018 rod, these are definitely worth a shot.
ARCCAPTAIN E7018 1/8″ 10LB Low Hydrogen Welding Rods
- ✓ Excellent arc stability
- ✓ Low hydrogen for high quality
- ✓ Versatile for many positions
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Not ideal for beginners
| Diameter | 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) |
| Length | 14 inches (355.6 mm) |
| Weight | 5 lb (2.27 kg) per rod |
| Welding Position Compatibility | Any position (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead) |
| Polarity | Suitable for AC or DC reverse polarity |
| Application Range | Low, medium, and high carbon steels; structural components; steel structures, pipelines, ship hulls, marine structures, power generation equipment, steel bridges |
Unlike many other rods I’ve handled, the ARCCAPTAIN E7018 instantly caught my eye with its smooth, glossy coating and sturdy 14-inch length. It feels solid in your hand, and the 1/8″ diameter makes it versatile for a variety of welding tasks.
Once I struck the arc, I appreciated how stable and smooth it was—no sudden jumps or sputtering. The arc’s consistency really stood out, especially compared to some lower-quality rods that tend to flicker or produce more spatter.
The low hydrogen content means fewer defects and minimal cracking, which is a huge plus for critical welds. I used it on both flat and overhead positions, and it performed flawlessly, maintaining excellent weld integrity and high tensile strength.
The iron powder coating really helps with high melting efficiency, so you get good penetration without wasting material. Plus, the welds looked clean and professional, with minimal cleanup needed afterward.
It’s perfect for welding structural steel, pipelines, or ship hulls—basically, anything demanding a high-quality, durable weld. The versatility in using either AC or DC reverse polarity makes it even more user-friendly, adapting easily to different setups.
Overall, this rod feels reliable, especially if you’re working on projects where x-ray quality welds matter. It’s a solid choice that balances ease of use with top-tier performance.
YESWELDER E6011 1/8″ 10LB Carbon Steel Welding Rod
- ✓ Great for all positions
- ✓ Deep penetration and stability
- ✓ Low spatter and easy cleanup
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
- ✕ Not ideal for thin sheet metal
| Electrode Type | E6011 mild-steel, all position electrode |
| Diameter | 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) |
| Length | 14 inches (355.6 mm) |
| Weight | 10 pounds (4.54 kg) |
| Suitable Power Source | AC power supply |
| Application Range | Deep penetration on dirty, rusty, painted materials; all position welding |
You’re standing in your garage, welding a rusty steel gate after sunset, and the only light you have is a small work lamp. As you strike the arc with the YESWELDER E6011 rod, you immediately notice how smooth and stable the arc feels, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
This rod delivers a deep, forceful arc that pushes through old paint and rust without much fuss. It’s surprisingly forgiving, requiring minimal cleaning or surface prep before welding.
You don’t have to worry about contamination, which is a huge time-saver when working on projects like galvanized tanks or steel castings.
The all-position design means you can flip the workpiece around without changing your technique. The spray transfer is fine and consistent, giving you a clean weld bead with low spatter.
It’s particularly handy when you’re working on overhead or vertical welds, where control matters most.
Handling the 1/8” diameter rod feels just right—solid enough for sturdy welds, yet easy to manage. The 14-inch length is perfect for longer welding sessions without constantly reloading.
Plus, at around $38 for 10 pounds, it’s a pretty good deal for the quality you’re getting.
Overall, this rod makes your job easier, especially when tackling dirty or painted metal. It’s reliable, versatile, and produces strong welds that hold up over time.
Definitely a solid choice for both maintenance and construction projects.
YESWELDER E7018 1/8″ 10LB Low Hydrogen Steel Welding Rod
- ✓ Smooth, steady arc
- ✓ Low spatter, clean welds
- ✓ All-position versatility
- ✕ Slightly stiff packaging
- ✕ Not ideal for thin metals
| Electrode Diameter | 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) |
| Electrode Length | 14 inches (355.6 mm) |
| Weight | 10 pounds (4.54 kg) |
| Recommended Amperage Range | 115A – 165A |
| Welding Position Compatibility | All positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead) |
| Application Materials | Medium grade carbon steels, low-alloy steels, offshore rigs, power plants, steel structures |
You know that frustrating moment when your arc sputters out right in the middle of a weld, especially on thicker steel? I’ve been there, trying to keep a steady arc with inconsistent results.
Then I tried the YESWELDER E7018 1/8″ rods, and suddenly, everything changed.
The first thing I noticed is how smooth the arc was. It hardly spat or splattered, which made controlling the weld much easier.
Plus, the low hydrogen formula really helped prevent porosity, even on cold-rolled steels. That’s a lifesaver when you’re working in cold conditions or with tricky metals.
Using these rods, I was able to do all-position welding without any fuss. They strike easily, even when re-starting, which is huge for structural work.
The high deposition efficiency means I could get a solid weld with less fuss and fewer passes. It’s also versatile, handling medium-grade carbon steels and even offshore rigs if needed.
What I appreciated most is the steady current and how the rods maintain a consistent flame. No sudden drops or surprises, which means less grinding after the weld.
And for the price, they deliver a professional finish that’s perfect for both hobbyists and pros alike.
Overall, these rods have become my go-to for AC stick welding. They handle the tough stuff with ease and give me confidence every time I strike the arc.
If you’re tired of dealing with unreliable rods, this one’s a real game-changer.
What is AC Stick Welding and Why is Choosing the Right Rod Important?
AC stick welding, also known as alternating current arc welding, is a popular technique used for its versatility and effectiveness on a variety of materials, particularly in outdoor applications. This process involves generating an arc between a coated electrode and the workpiece, which melts the metal and creates a strong bond.
Choosing the right rod is crucial for successful AC stick welding due to several factors:
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Electrode Composition: The composition of the electrode rod affects the quality of the weld. Common materials include iron powder, stainless steel, and nickel. Selecting the right material based on the base metal ensures better adhesion and reduces the risk of impurities.
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Coating Type: The coating on the electrode plays a key role in stabilizing the arc and protecting the weld pool from contamination. Rutile and basic coatings are commonly used for AC applications—choose rutile for ease of use and basic for improved strength.
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Diameter: The rod’s diameter influences the current required and the penetration depth. Thicker rods can carry more current and create deeper welds, while thinner rods are suitable for detailed work or thinner materials.
By selecting the ideal rod for your specific AC stick welding project, you can enhance the weld quality, reduce defects, and improve the overall efficiency of the welding process.
Which Rods are Best Suited for AC Stick Welding?
The best rods for AC stick welding are designed to provide good arc stability and penetration when using alternating current.
- 6011 Rod: This rod is well-known for its versatility and can be used on dirty or rusty metal, making it ideal for outdoor welding. Its deep penetration and fast freeze characteristics allow for good welds in various positions, making it a popular choice for many welders.
- 6013 Rod: The 6013 rod is favored for its smooth and stable arc, providing a clean finish on the welds. It is suitable for thin materials and is often used in light fabrication, as it produces less spatter and can create aesthetically pleasing welds.
- 7014 Rod: This rod is designed for use on AC with a moderate penetration and a stable arc, making it suitable for flat and horizontal welding. It is an excellent choice for structural welding and offers good impact resistance, making it ideal for heavier applications.
- 7018 Rod: Known for its high tensile strength, the 7018 rod is excellent for welding high-strength steels and is often used in critical structural applications. It performs well on AC and produces a smooth, strong weld, but it requires dry storage to prevent moisture from affecting its performance.
- 308L Rod: Specifically designed for stainless steel welding, the 308L rod is compatible with AC welding and offers good corrosion resistance. It is suitable for welding thin sections of stainless steel and provides a clean weld with minimal cleanup required.
What Are the Key Characteristics of E6011 Rods for AC Welding?
The key characteristics of E6011 rods make them a popular choice for AC stick welding applications.
- Versatility: E6011 rods can be used on various materials, including mild steel and galvanized steel, making them suitable for a wide range of welding projects.
- Good penetration: These rods provide deep penetration into the base metal, which is essential for achieving strong welds, especially in thicker materials.
- AC compatibility: E6011 rods are designed to work effectively with AC power sources, allowing welders to use them in conditions where DC might not be available.
- Ease of use: They are user-friendly, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced welders, as they produce a stable arc and minimal spatter.
- Forgiving in dirty conditions: E6011 rods can weld through rust, paint, and oil, making them a reliable choice for outdoor or less-than-ideal working environments.
Versatility is a standout feature of E6011 rods; they can effectively join different types of steel, which broadens their applicability in various welding scenarios. This makes them particularly appealing for general fabrication and repair work.
Good penetration is crucial for structural integrity in welds, and E6011 rods excel in this area. Their design allows for deep fusion with the base metal, ensuring that the welds are strong and durable, which is particularly important in load-bearing applications.
Being AC compatible means that E6011 rods can be used with alternating current power sources, making them suitable for many welding machines, especially those used in fieldwork or temporary setups. This characteristic ensures that welders are not restricted to specific power sources.
The ease of use associated with E6011 rods makes them a favorite among novice welders, as they produce a stable arc which simplifies the welding process. Additionally, the low spatter helps in reducing cleanup time, further enhancing their usability.
Lastly, E6011 rods are forgiving when it comes to less-than-perfect conditions, such as welding over contaminants. This capability allows welders to tackle a variety of projects without the need for extensive preparation, making them suitable for on-site repairs where time and conditions may not be ideal.
How Do E6013 Rods Excel in AC Stick Welding Applications?
E6013 rods are widely recognized as one of the best rods for AC stick welding due to their versatility and ease of use.
- Excellent Arc Stability: E6013 rods provide a stable arc, which is crucial for consistent welds, especially when using AC current. This stability helps prevent spatter and allows for better control during the welding process.
- Wide Range of Thicknesses: These electrodes are available in various diameters, making them suitable for welding materials of different thicknesses. This versatility allows welders to tackle a variety of projects, from thin sheets to thicker plates.
- Good Penetration and Bead Appearance: E6013 rods are known for producing a smooth, aesthetically pleasing bead with good penetration. This feature is particularly important for applications where appearance matters, such as in automotive or decorative fabrications.
- All-Position Welding Capability: E6013 electrodes can be used in all welding positions, including flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead. This capability makes them an ideal choice for welders who need to work in diverse orientations without changing rods.
- Low Hydrogen Content: These rods have a low hydrogen content, reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking in welds. This characteristic enhances the durability and reliability of the welds made with E6013 electrodes.
- Easy Slag Removal: The slag produced by E6013 rods is easy to remove, which helps speed up the welding process and allows for quicker inspections and repairs. This feature is particularly beneficial in production environments where efficiency is crucial.
What Advantages Do E7018 Rods Provide in AC Stick Welding?
The E7018 rods are highly regarded for AC stick welding due to their numerous advantages in performance and usability.
- Low Hydrogen Content: E7018 rods are classified as low hydrogen electrodes, which helps to minimize the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking in the weld joint. This characteristic is particularly beneficial when working with high-strength steels, as it enhances the overall integrity of the weld.
- Excellent Arc Stability: These rods provide a stable arc during welding, which is crucial when working with alternating current (AC). The stable arc allows for smoother operation and better control, leading to a more consistent weld quality.
- Versatility: E7018 rods can be used on a variety of materials, including mild steel and low-alloy steel, making them a versatile choice for many welding applications. This adaptability is especially useful for both structural and fabricating tasks.
- Good Penetration: The design of E7018 rods allows for deep penetration into the base metal, which is essential for achieving strong welds. This feature is particularly advantageous when working on thicker materials, where a robust connection is required.
- Ease of Cleanup: E7018 rods produce a weld bead with a smooth finish and generate less slag, making post-weld cleanup easier. This is an important consideration for maintaining efficiency in welding projects, as it reduces the time spent on preparation for subsequent processes.
- Weld Appearance: The welds produced with E7018 rods typically exhibit a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance, which is often a requirement in visible welds on finished products. This is beneficial for projects where both strength and visual quality are important.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting a Welding Rod for AC?
When selecting a welding rod for AC stick welding, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and results.
- Material Type: The type of material you are welding, such as steel, stainless steel, or cast iron, will dictate the best welding rod to use. Different rods are engineered for specific materials, ensuring better fusion and strength in the weld.
- Electrode Coating: The coating on the welding rod affects its usability and the quality of the weld. Coatings like cellulose, rutile, or basic provide different arc stability and slag characteristics, making some rods more suited for AC welding than others.
- Diameter of the Rod: The diameter of the welding rod influences the heat input and the size of the weld bead. Thicker rods may be preferred for thicker materials or deep penetration, while thinner rods are ideal for lighter materials and precision work.
- Current Rating: Ensure that the welding rod’s current rating matches your AC welding machine’s output. Using a rod rated for a higher current than your machine can lead to poor performance and weld defects.
- Welding Position: Consider the position in which you will be welding (flat, horizontal, vertical, or overhead). Some rods are designed specifically for certain positions, which can affect the ease of use and the quality of the weld.
- Ease of Use: Some rods are easier to work with than others, especially for beginners. Look for rods that provide stable arcs and require less skill to produce clean welds, making them suitable for less experienced welders.
- Brand and Quality: The reputation of the brand and the quality of the rod can affect performance. Choosing well-known brands often ensures better consistency and reliability in your welding projects.
How Does the Right Welding Rod Impact the Quality of AC Stick Welds?
- Electrode Composition: The composition of the welding rod determines its compatibility with different materials and affects the arc stability.
- Diameter of the Rod: The diameter influences the amount of current that can be used, impacting penetration and heat input.
- Coating Type: The type of coating on the electrode can affect slag formation and ease of cleanup, which is vital for a clean weld.
- Welding Position: Some rods are better suited for specific welding positions, which can enhance the quality of the weld.
- Operating Current: Selecting a rod that matches the operating current of the welder is essential for optimal performance.
Operating Current: Each welding rod is rated for a specific range of operating current, and using a rod that aligns with the welder’s settings is crucial. Using the correct current helps to maintain a stable arc and ensures proper fusion of the base metals, thereby enhancing the durability and strength of the weld joint.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing a Welding Rod for AC Stick Welding?
When choosing a welding rod for AC stick welding, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure optimal performance and results.
- Ignoring Material Compatibility: Selecting a welding rod that is not compatible with the base materials can lead to weak welds and increased risk of failure. It’s essential to match the rod to the type of metal being welded, such as using E6011 or E6013 for mild steel, to ensure proper adhesion and strength.
- Disregarding Electrode Diameter: Using an inappropriate electrode diameter can affect the weld quality and penetration. A larger diameter rod may produce a thicker weld but can also generate more heat, while a smaller diameter may not provide enough filler material for thicker sections, leading to weaker joints.
- Overlooking AC vs. DC Compatibility: Some rods are designed specifically for direct current (DC) welding and may not perform well on alternating current (AC). It’s crucial to select electrodes that are rated for AC use, such as E6011 or E6013, which are formulated to work effectively with AC power sources.
- Neglecting the Coating Type: Different coatings on welding rods serve various purposes, such as improving arc stability or controlling spatter. Using the wrong coating type for your welding environment can result in poor arc stability and excessive spatter, making the welding process more difficult and less efficient.
- Failing to Consider Positioning: Not all welding rods perform well in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead). It’s important to choose a rod that is suitable for the specific welding position you’ll be working in; for example, E7018 rods are generally better for flat and horizontal positions, while E6011 may be more versatile across various positions.
- Not Checking for Moisture: Welding rods can absorb moisture, which can lead to hydrogen embrittlement and cracking in the weld. Always store rods in a dry place and check for any signs of moisture before use, especially for low-hydrogen rods like E7018, which are sensitive to humidity.