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S480644-032 - Hobart Sterling AP E312-16 Stainless Steel Stick Electrode 1/8"

Packaging: 18lb can
$46.86/lb $421.74/18lb can only $23.43/lbSave 50%

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OVERVIEW

Hobart Sterling AP 312: The Ultimate Maintenance Electrode

The Hobart Sterling AP 312 Stick Electrode is widely regarded as the "problem solver" for industrial maintenance and repair operations. When you are faced with a broken part and the exact composition of the base metal is unknown, or when you need to join two completely different types of steel, this is the electrode you reach for. Designed to handle the toughest welding challenges, the Sterling AP 312 provides a high-strength, ductile weld that resists cracking even under severe stress.

This 1/8" electrode is engineered for versatility. It performs exceptionally well in all positions—flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead—making it indispensable for field repairs where positioning the workpiece is not an option. The "AP" in its name stands for All Position, and it lives up to that promise with a smooth, stable arc that is easy to control. Whether you are repairing heavy machinery, fixing a broken leaf spring, or fabricating a custom bracket from scrap steel, the Hobart Sterling AP 312 ensures a reliable bond.

One of the standout features of this product is its user-friendly performance. It operates on both AC and DCEP currents, making it compatible with a wide range of welding machines, from simple buzz boxes to advanced industrial power sources. The slag is self-detaching in many cases, or easily removed with a light chip, leaving behind a clean, professional-looking bead. For maintenance shops, having a can of Hobart Sterling AP 312 on the shelf means you are prepared for the unexpected, reducing downtime and keeping your operations running smoothly.

Key Benefits for Your Shop:

  • Versatility: Welds carbon steel, stainless steel, tool steel, and more.
  • Reliability: High crack resistance prevents rework.
  • Ease of Use: Smooth arc and easy slag removal reduce operator fatigue.
Additional Information
Packaging Description:18lb can
Diameter:3.2mm (3-2mm)
AWS Spec :E312
Weld Process:Stick
Polarity:AC or DC+
Grade:312
Rod Type:Stick Electrode
Material Composition:Stainless Steel 312
Welding Position:All Position
Tensile Strength:~120,000 PSI
Coating Type:Rutile
Applications:Dissimilar Metals, Maintenance & Repair, Tool Steel
----- new values below ----
Rod Type:Stick Electrode
Material Composition:Stainless Steel 312
Welding Position:All Position
Tensile Strength:120,000 PSI
Coating Type:Rutile
Applications:Dissimilar Metals, Maintenance Repair, Tool Steel
brand:Hobart
diameter:3.2mm (3-2mm)
aws-spec:E312
weld-process:Stick
polarity:AC or DC+
grade:312

INCLUDED

  • 1 x Can of Hobart Sterling AP 312 Stick Electrodes (1/8" Diameter)

APPLICATIONS

  • Joining carbon steel to stainless steel
  • Repairing tool steels, dies, and punches
  • Welding abrasion-resistant plates and manganese steels
  • Repairing leaf springs, drive shafts, and gears
  • General maintenance on unknown steel grades
  • Buffer layers for hardfacing applications
  • Repairing cast steel components

FAQ

They are primarily used for maintenance and repair, specifically for joining dissimilar metals (like carbon steel to stainless) or welding hard-to-weld steels such as tool steel and spring steel.

Yes, the Hobart Sterling AP 312 is designed to operate smoothly on both AC and DCEP (DC+) currents.

While stainless electrodes are less susceptible to moisture than low-hydrogen carbon steel rods, it is best practice to store them in a dry environment. If the can is opened, keeping them in a rod oven at 250°F-300°F helps maintain optimal performance.

It has a high tensile strength and a chemical composition that resists cracking, allowing it to successfully weld steels that would normally crack with standard electrodes.

The weld deposit typically has a tensile strength of approximately 120,000 PSI, making it extremely strong and durable.

Yes, Josef Gas offers bulk purchasing options for industrial clients. Please contact our sales team for volume pricing on Hobart welding consumables.

While 312 can sometimes be used on certain cast steels, it is generally not the first choice for cast iron (high nickel rods are preferred). However, it is excellent for joining steel to cast steel.

It means the slag coating that forms over the weld bead cools and contracts in a way that it often pops off by itself or requires very little effort to remove, speeding up cleanup.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet
Safety Data Sheet