AWS Class E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes – Composition, Properties, and Uses

Welding is an essential process in various industrial applications. And to achieve a quality weld, it is imperative to have the appropriate welding consumables. One such welding consumable is the coated electrodes. This article will focus on AWSClass E8018-B6 coated electrodes, an internationally recognized welding material. We’ll delve into its composition, physical properties, mechanical properties, uses, heat treatment, and corrosion resistance.

What are AWS Class E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes?

AWSClass E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes welding wire are a type of carbon steel electrode used for all position manual and automatic welding applications. These electrodes provide excellent mechanical properties, including high flexibility, strength, and hardness. They have been designed with special flux coatings to improve weldability and provide superior performance in fillet and butt joints. The low levels of hydrogen content also ensure that they produce fewer defects upon cooling. These electrodes are suitable for many applications, such as pressure vessels, boiler structures, storage tanks, piping systems, etc. Other features, such as its ability to be adapted according to user requirements, make it ideal for any welding project.

AWSClass E8018-B6 coated electrodes are iron powder, low hydrogen welding electrodes widely used in structural steel welding. These electrodes are known for their excellent mechanical properties, resistance to cracking, and high tensile strength. While these characteristics make it ideal for welding applications, it has specific compositions that make it different from other coated electrodes.

E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes Composition

The composition of AWSClass E8018-B6 welding alloy includes Carbon (C), Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si), Molybdenum (Mo), and Nickel (Ni). Also, it contains a small amount of Phosphorus (P) and Sulphur (S), which are detrimental to welding quality. Furthermore, this electrode has a low hydrogen content of up to 4 ml/100g or 4 ml/100g H2. This makes it an excellent choice for welding low-carbon, low-alloy steels.

E8018-B6 Welding  Electrodes Physical Properties

Regarding physical properties, AWSClass E8018-B6 electrodes have a diameter of 2.5 mm to 5 mm. Each electrode typically ranges from 250mm to 450 mm in length. The electrode coating makes it easy to strike and maintain a stable arc, which is crucial in welding. Welders also appreciate the higher sulfur content in AWSClass E8018-B6 coated electrodes, which helps remove slag.

E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes Mechanical Properties

On the other hand, AWSClass E8018-B6 electrodes also have exceptional mechanical properties. This includes a high tensile strength, which ranges between 540 MPa to 610 MPa. Its elongation is impressive, with values ranging from 22% to 27%, indicating that it can withstand deformation without breaking quickly. Another notable mechanical property is its low impact strength at -30 °C, up to 47 joules.

E8018-B6 Welding Electrodes Trade Names

E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes Parameters

E8018-B6 Welding  Electrodes Uses

The AWSClass E8018-B6 filler wire are commonly used in structural steel welding applications. This includes high-temperature applications such as boilers, pipelines, and pressure vessels. Its excellent resistance to cracking and high tensile strength also makes it suitable for welding offshore platforms, bridge construction, and repair welding works. AWSClass E8018-B6 coated electrodes have more advantages in welding high-yield steel than other welding electrodes.

E8018-B6 Coated Electrodes Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is essential for welding to maintain the required strength and properties. AWSClass E8018-B6 filler metal must be stored in dry conditions because they are low hydrogen coated. Before use, they must be completely clean and free from moisture, oil, rust, and other impurities. The recommended heat treatment temperature ranges between 620 °C and 680 °C immediately after welding. This will ensure that the weld attains the required strength and properties.

E8018-B6 Welding  Electrodes Corrosion Resistance

Lastly, AWSClass E8018-B6 coated electrodes have excellent resistance to atmospheric corrosion. This means that it can withstand exposure to weather and moisture without rusting. This corrosion resistance helps extend the lifespan of welded steel structures.

Conclusion

AWSClass E8018-B6 coated electrodes are a reliable welding consumable with a unique composition and physical and mechanical properties that make it ideal for welding low carbon, low alloy steels. Its excellent resistance to cracking, high tensile strength and elongation make it an excellent choice for structural welding applications such as the fabrication of pressure vessels, bridges, pipelines, and offshore platforms. Store and handle the electrodes correctly and adhere to the recommended heat treatment temperature to ensure you get the best results.