S522312-I26 - Hobart FabCO 316LT1 .045 Flux-Cored Stainless Wire 33lb

Technical Overview of Hobart FabCO 316LT1

The Hobart FabCO 316LT1 (Internal SKU: S522312-I26) represents a premium tier of gas-shielded, flux-cored stainless steel welding wires, specifically engineered for the joining of AISI 316 and 316L base metals. This consumable is manufactured with a precise diameter of 0.045 inches (1.2 mm) and is supplied on a 33-pound (15 kg) spool, optimizing changeover times in high-volume industrial fabrication environments. The wire's chemical composition is strictly controlled to meet AWS A5.22 specifications, carrying the classifications E316LT1-1 and E316LT1-4. The inclusion of 2.0-3.0% molybdenum is critical, as it provides the weld deposit with superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, particularly in chloride-containing environments such as marine atmospheres or chemical processing plants.

A key technical feature of this wire is its low carbon content, typically capped at 0.04%. This low carbon level is essential for minimizing the risk of carbide precipitation at the grain boundaries during the thermal cycle of welding. By preventing sensitization, the wire ensures that the weldment retains high resistance to intergranular corrosion, a common failure mode in stainless steel structures. The flux system is rutile-based, designed to operate on Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP). It offers a wide parameter window and stable arc transfer characteristics. The dual classification allows for flexibility in shielding gas selection: 100% CO2 provides deep penetration and cost-effectiveness, while a mixture of 75% Argon / 25% CO2 enhances arc stability and reduces spatter levels.

The slag system of the FabCO 316LT1 is engineered for fast freezing, which supports the molten pool against gravity. This characteristic makes the wire exceptionally suitable for out-of-position welding, including vertical-up and overhead applications, without the need for pulsed power sources often required for solid wire positional welding. The resulting slag cover is dense yet self-detaching, revealing a bright, finely rippled bead profile that requires minimal post-weld finishing. Mechanical properties of the undiluted weld metal typically exhibit a tensile strength exceeding 75,000 psi (520 MPa) and elongation greater than 30%, ensuring ductile and robust joints. Proper storage in a dry, controlled environment is recommended to prevent moisture pickup in the flux, which could lead to porosity.