Lincoln Electric introduces the all-new Excalibur® 7018 XMR™ low-hydrogen stick electrode as part of the Excalibur SMAW (stick) electrode series.

Electrodes, when exposed to air, pick up moisture over time. The moisture typically increases the hydrogen content of the weld – and potentially leads to failure. Low hydrogen (or basic) electrodes are designed for applications susceptible to hydrogen cracking, a form of failure occurring when moisture causes porosity in the weld.

Excalibur 7018 XMR is used for general fabrication in many industries, including:

• Structural
• Pipeline
• Chemical Processing
• Ship Building

Previously, Lincoln Electric’s Excalibur 7018 MR stick electrode was designed to meet AWS (American Welding Society) standards (AWS A5 limit for 9 hours exposure, H4R classification) for moisture resistance, meaning it will resist moisture for a full shift, or 9 hours. After that, it is common practice to put electrodes from the opened container in a rod oven to bake the moisture out of the rod coating.

“We know that it is not always easy to keep track of time while on the job. Many real world users have longer shifts than the standard 9 hours. Sometimes, it is necessary for welders to continue welding after the 9-hour mark or an oven is not available. Our customers deserve a solution that corresponds to real world situations,” said Olivier Arnoult, Product Manager, SMAW, Lincoln Electric. “Excalibur® 7018 XMR™ stick electrode minimizes moisture control risks.”

Key features of Excalibur 7018 XMR electrode include:

• Meets AWS H4R moisture requirements during up to 24 hours of exposure
• Improved coating integrity
• Extreme bendability – The rod coating maintains integrity when bent for welding in tight spaces to a greater extent than similar competitive rods
• 60% less moisture pickup vs. competition

Lincoln Electric always recommends that users follow the guidelines set by regulations and codes and evaluate the appropriateness of the welding consumable for their particular welding application.

For more information, visit www.lincolnelectric.com

About Lincoln Electric

Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the design, development and manufacture of arc welding products, automated joining, assembly and cutting systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment and has a leading global position in brazing and soldering alloys. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln has 59 manufacturing locations in 18 countries and a worldwide network of distributors and sales offices covering more than 160 countries. For more information about Lincoln Electric and its products and services, visit the Company’s website at www.lincolnelectric.com