For general mild steel fabrication, 6013 electrodes are the most popular choice — easy to strike, with good arc stability and easy slag removal. For structural or high-strength work, 7018 low-hydrogen electrodes are preferred for their superior mechanical properties and reduced risk of hydrogen cracking. Most workshops stock both.
This guide covers choosing between 6013 and 7018, selecting the right electrode for mild and structural steel, sizing electrode diameter, and which electrodes every workshop should keep.
6013 vs 7018 electrodes — which should I buy?
6013 electrodes are ideal for general-purpose mild steel fabrication because they are easy to strike and produce smooth welds. 7018 low-hydrogen electrodes provide higher strength and are preferred for structural steel and coded welding. The correct choice depends on your application and project requirements.
Which MMA electrode is best for mild steel?
6013 electrodes are the most popular choice for general mild steel welding. They provide good arc stability, easy slag removal and are suitable for a wide range of fabrication and maintenance work. For structural or high-strength applications, 7018 electrodes may be more appropriate.
Which electrode is best for structural steel?
7018 low-hydrogen electrodes are widely used for structural steel because they offer excellent mechanical properties, toughness and reduced risk of hydrogen cracking. Always follow the welding procedure specification where one is required.
How do I choose the right welding electrode?
Consider the parent material, welding position, mechanical requirements and application. Mild steel fabrication often uses 6013 electrodes, while structural work typically requires 7018 low-hydrogen electrodes. Using the correct electrode improves weld quality and reduces the likelihood of defects.
Which electrode diameter should I choose?
Electrode diameter should match the material thickness and welding current:
- 2.5 mm — suits thinner materials.
- 3.2 mm — commonly used for general fabrication and structural steel.
- 4.0 mm — commonly used for general fabrication and structural steel.
Selecting the correct size helps achieve proper penetration and weld quality.
Which MMA electrodes should every workshop stock?
Many fabrication workshops keep 6013 electrodes for general fabrication and 7018 low-hydrogen electrodes for structural welding. These two electrode types cover a wide range of everyday welding applications. 6013 remains one of the UK’s most widely used MMA electrodes for general fabrication, while 7018 is preferred for structural and coded welding.
Are premium MMA electrodes worth the extra cost?
For many fabrication businesses, premium electrodes provide better arc stability, easier slag removal and more consistent weld quality. These benefits often reduce repair work and increase productivity, frequently delivering better long-term value than the lowest-priced option.
A quick reference
| Application | Recommended electrode |
|---|---|
| General mild steel fabrication | 6013 |
| Structural / high-strength / coded | 7018 (low-hydrogen) |
| Thinner materials | 2.5 mm diameter |
| General fabrication and structural | 3.2 mm and 4.0 mm diameter |