k0ua
Epic Contributor
The rod oven is to keep 7018 dry which it is a Low Hydrogen rod, and if moisture gets in the flux it can form hydrogen gas bubbles in the weld bead from breaking down the water molecule. And while I am sure a nice hot fresh 7018 just out of the oven would be ideal, I have gotten by just fine with just keeping them in a rod holder with a sealed gasket. Harbor Freight has holders at reasonable prices as does others.