For how many hours can an 8018 rod be out of a sealed can?

The correct duration for which an 8018 electrode rod can be out of a sealed container is indeed 2 hours. This is significant because 8018 electrodes are low hydrogen weld rods, which are highly sensitive to moisture absorption. When these rods are exposed to air, they can absorb moisture, which can adversely affect the quality of the weld.

The time limit of 2 hours is set to ensure that the integrity and performance of the rod remain optimal, preventing issues such as hydrogen-induced cracking during the welding process. If rods remain out of their sealed environment beyond this timeframe, they may require re-drying before use, to mitigate the risk of weld defects.

Adhering to this guideline is essential for quality assurance in welding practices, particularly in situations where high-strength welds are required. Such considerations are central to the provisions outlined in the Structural Welding Code – Steel (D1.1).