How long can 7018 rods be out of a sealed can?

7018 rods, which are low-hydrogen electrodes, are designed to prevent hydrogen-induced cracking in the weld metal. When these rods are taken out of their sealed packaging, they are exposed to moisture in the air, which can lead to the absorption of hydrogen.

The industry standard states that 7018 rods can be out of a sealed can for up to 4 hours without compromising their integrity. During this timeframe, the rods can maintain their low-hydrogen characteristics, provided they are stored properly and not subjected to high humidity or wet conditions.

Once the 4-hour limit is reached, the risk of moisture absorption increases significantly, which could lead to defects in the welds made with these electrodes. Therefore, it is critical to control the exposure time to ensure quality welding and mitigate potential issues associated with hydrogen in the weld pool.

Understanding this key timeframe is essential for welders to adhere to best practices and maintain high standards of workmanship.