On Wed, 15 Mar 2006 17:53:52 GMT, Ignoramus26498
wrote:

I buy my 7018 rod in sealed packs, from a farm supply store or Harbor
Freight. The opened packs I store in a plastic rod storage container
made for storing welding rods.

Just how bad is the issue of moisture in these rods if they are stored
in sealed plastic tubular containers that are occasionally opened. I
am not welding space vehicles or doing anything where 100% of strength
is required or where life is at stake. Still, I would like to double
check whether I am at risk of making completely worthless welds.


You shouldn't have much problem especially if you're welding mild
steel with them. Critical welds in high carbon steel then yes a oven
is needed. But there's been lots of 7018 run that never was in a rod
oven.

An old junk refridgerator makes for good storage. Remove the switch so that
light bulb stays on. Keeps them nice and toasty.
Walt
"Ignoramus26498" wrote in message
.. .
On Wed, 15 Mar 2006 12:09:01 -0600, Wayne Cook
wrote:
On Wed, 15 Mar 2006 17:53:52 GMT, Ignoramus26498
wrote:

I buy my 7018 rod in sealed packs, from a farm supply store or Harbor
Freight. The opened packs I store in a plastic rod storage container
made for storing welding rods.

Just how bad is the issue of moisture in these rods if they are stored
in sealed plastic tubular containers that are occasionally opened. I
am not welding space vehicles or doing anything where 100% of strength
is required or where life is at stake. Still, I would like to double
check whether I am at risk of making completely worthless welds.


You shouldn't have much problem especially if you're welding mild
steel with them. Critical welds in high carbon steel then yes a oven
is needed. But there's been lots of 7018 run that never was in a rod
oven.

Thanks Wayne... I will try to make sure to weld everything with ample
strength reserve.

i