3G SMAW E7018 root pass stick welding tips (STOP TRAPPING SLAG!)

I'm running 125 amps in this video.

This quick welding tips video is my method to running the root pass on a vertical 3G 7018 AWS D1.1 plate test. This method will help you out if you're dealing with things like a convex weld bead profile, excessive undercut on the root pass, or worst of all the dreaded slag trapped at the toes of your weld (also known as wagon tracks).

When I'm running the root pass, I use a "Z" weave. I go straight across, and then up and over. I am pushing the stick rod into the bevel slightly, and when I see the puddle overtake the tip of the rod I know it is time to move on. I am not ever counting when I weld, if that works for you by all means continue but I find relying on my eye to be much more consistent than counting.

I help welders gain the skills required to pass the 3G 4G SMAW AWS D1.1 certification tests. Generally, I see the same things preventing people from passing the visual inspection on a 3G SMAW root pass. E7018 is known for a very fluid puddle that will fall right out of the joint if you're not careful. Make sure you hold a tight arc in the bevel. You also need to make sure you are weaving out wide enough, that will flatten out your bead tremendously. Holding the sides for enough time helps to fill in the undercut. Remember, every time you're stick welding you're cutting into the plate, you can think of undercut as "underfill."

Side note, there is a lot of debate about grinder usage on a test. I am a proponent of using a grinder on the test, but some people take it too far. No foreman or supervisor wants to see a welder grinding for 20 minutes and welding for 2. A grinder is a tool of the trade, and you need good grinder skills. However, you do not want to use a grinder as a crutch. If you weld the root pass like I show in this video, all you're going to need is a chipping hammer and a wire brush to clean your weld. AWS D1.1 is completely silent on grinder usage on the limited thickness 3/8" (9.525mm) plate test. Always check the WPS or with the inspector overseeing your test. D1.5 bridge certification however does state that no grinders shall be used by the welder during the test so if you're shooting for a bridge certification get used to doing it 100%.

I hope this quick welding tips 3G root pass SMAW 7018 electrode video helps you out if you're getting undercut, excessive convexity, or trapped slag. Subscribe to the channel for more short welding videos.

[yomama]

Nice. I'm in school now and just start 2f t joints and working on 6010 1/8" rods. The frustrating part was getting a consistent travel speed, work angle, and arc length. It's slowly coming together with the extra time we're allowed in the booth. I'm grateful for all these videos I come across that give me a preview of what to expect when things go right and when they will go wrong.

[giannirocco]

Been retired(plumbers and pipefitters local 725) for some time now but I can tell you this guy is giving accurate information here, you would do well by paying attention

It so professional! Thanks for your teaching

[savitar]

For one this video is exactly what i was looking for and will help me a great, great deal in improving at 3g in general, and for two your voice sounds hella nice so keep it up my man

[BryceSena]

Keep making welding videos man, I like your style of video 👌🏽

[blayze]

I just dont understand how you can hold the rod in place for so long i feel like id be running way way too hot

[ericdobson]

Thanks for the tips I test on the 10th for my 3g hopefully I do great

[BuddysBS]

Good shit yo. We need to see cover pass examples

[itzironlifemiguel]

Good video Dude, do the same one but for 4G demonstration SMAW

I am so interested in welding field! I am girls who like so much in welding

[weeeeee]

How did you work this video did you use a hood? And if you did what kind did you use or lens because that puddle is clear asf

[petar]

Nice video. But i have question. I need to weld 5/8 plate to 5/8 plate . Outside corner joint . In Europe and here only have 6013 and 7018. I think 7018 is better for the job. I suppose to weld it in flat position. I will need to make multiple passes with the 1/8 electrode. Is there a way to make backing for outside corner welding ? Any suggestions ?

[Creationadmiration]

Hey isn't this consider a weave? I've been out of the trade for a minute now but I got a baby on the way and took on another weld job
Appreciate any responses in advance, I've been out for a while but I need the wages to provide for the family. Any tips whatsoever for a vertical 7018 open root would be great. Thanks yall!

[chaseclark]

i struggle so much with uphill i keep blowing through after two seconds and im at the right amps

[ericdobson]

Do you think I should turn up my amps I’m running about 115-120 with a 1/8 rod 7018 I’m getting a little splatter

[rubberduckyreloading]

Are you my teacher at Daytona State? MAW cuz you have the same voice.

[sheluvvenus]

I’m just curious what amperage do you run when doing your root pass?

[carlosvasquezsoria]

Quiero pasé de relleno y acabado muy friend

[oscarperegrino]

What amperage are you running for that 1/8"rod?

[trollin]

you said the same thing in a minor differential 5x