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63061200V - ER308L Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rod .045" (5kg Tube)

Packaging: 5kg tube
$58.46/kg $182.70/5kg tube only $36.54/kgSave 37%

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SKU: VAN6306-1200V Categories: ,

OVERVIEW

Technical Overview of ER308L Stainless Steel TIG Rod

The ER308L .045" TIG Rod is a premium austenitic stainless steel filler metal designed for the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) process. Conforming to AWS A5.9 classifications, this rod is specifically engineered for joining type 304 and 304L base metals. The 'L' designation indicates a controlled low carbon content (maximum 0.03%), which is critical for minimizing the risk of carbide precipitation during the welding process. This feature significantly enhances the weld's resistance to intergranular corrosion, making it suitable for applications where the welded component will be exposed to corrosive environments or high temperatures without post-weld heat treatment.

This filler metal typically contains approximately 20% chromium and 10% nickel, providing a microstructure that balances strength and ductility. The addition of silicon improves the fluidity of the weld pool, allowing for better wetting action and a smoother tie-in at the toes of the weld. This is particularly advantageous when welding thin-gauge materials where bead profile and appearance are paramount. The .045" (approx. 1.14mm) diameter offers precise control for fine detail work and root passes in pipe welding applications.

Packaged in a durable 5kg tube, these 39-inch cut lengths are protected from environmental contaminants such as moisture and dust, ensuring the integrity of the filler metal is maintained during storage. The rods are stamped or flagged for easy identification, supporting strict quality control protocols in industrial environments. Common applications include food and beverage processing equipment, chemical storage tanks, pharmaceutical piping, and general architectural fabrication where 304 stainless steel is the primary substrate.

Key Technical Specifications

  • Classification: AWS A5.9 ER308L
  • Base Metal Compatibility: AISI 304, 304L, 308, 321
  • Tensile Strength: Typically 85,000 PSI (depending on parameters)
  • Elongation: ~35-40%
  • Shielding Gas: 100% Argon recommended
Additional Information
Packaging:10lb tube, 5kg tube
Polarity:DC+, DCEN
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Length :39 inches
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon
Alloy Type:Austenitic Stainless Steel
----- new values below ----
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Length:39 inches
Shielding Gas Requirement:100% Argon
Polarity:DCEN
Alloy Type:Austenitic Stainless Steel
AWS Spec:ER308L
Diameter:0.045
Grade:308
Packaging:5kg tube
Weld Process:TIG

INCLUDED

  • 5 kg Tube of ER308L .045" TIG Rods (39" Length)

APPLICATIONS

  • Food and beverage processing equipment fabrication
  • Chemical and pharmaceutical storage tanks
  • Architectural stainless steel structures
  • Automotive exhaust systems and headers
  • General maintenance and repair of 304 stainless steel
  • Cryogenic piping systems

FAQ

For TIG welding with ER308L, 100% Argon is the standard and recommended shielding gas. It provides excellent arc stability and cleaning action. For specific penetration requirements, helium mixtures can be used, but pure Argon is best for general use.

Yes, ER308L is the ideal filler metal for welding 304 and 304L stainless steels. The 'L' stands for low carbon, which matches the 304L base metal properties and prevents corrosion issues.

This rod is designed for use with Direct Current Electrode Negative (DCEN), also known as straight polarity. This concentrates the heat in the work piece for deep penetration.

The .045" (1.14mm) diameter is a great middle-ground size. It is thin enough for delicate sheet metal work (16-18 gauge) but substantial enough to add fill for root passes on slightly thicker pipe or plate.

The primary difference is carbon content. ER308L has a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, whereas ER308 can have up to 0.08%. The lower carbon in 'L' grades prevents carbide precipitation, which preserves corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone.

While these rods come clean in the tube, it is always good practice in TIG welding to wipe the rod down with a clean rag and acetone before use to remove any surface oils or dust that could cause porosity.

No, ER308L is not recommended for joining mild steel to stainless steel. For dissimilar metal welding (mild to stainless), you should use an ER309L filler rod to prevent cracking.

The count varies by diameter, but for .045" rods, a 5kg tube contains a significant quantity, typically several hundred rods, making it a long-lasting supply for most job shops.

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