Tip for Scratch Starting 7018

by Tim
(Zion, IL, USA)

Simply scratch the 7018 rod an inch or so from the intended direction of travel back to your starting point, to heat up the rod properly, and then forward for your weld bead. For example, welding uphill on a piece of pipe starting at 6 o'clock and continuing toward 12 o'clock. Start the rod at 5 o'clock and drag back to 6 o'clock, make a u-turn and start welding uphill toward 12 o'clock. This method will help get your welding rod up to the proper temp. before starting your weld bead and help make the weld bead more uniform throughout.