Skip to Main Content
Canadian
Canadian owned and operated

100996 - ER308LSi .035 Stainless MIG Wire - 33lb Spool

Packaging: 33 lb spool
$12.80/lb $268.29/33 lb spool only $8.13/lbSave 36%

In stock

OVERVIEW

High-Performance Stainless Steel Welding Wire for Industrial Fabrication

The ER308LSi .035" Stainless Steel MIG Wire on a 33lb spool is a premium consumable designed for high-volume industrial welding of austenitic stainless steels. Manufactured to meet rigorous AWS A5.9 specifications, this wire is the preferred choice for professional fabricators working with ASTM 304 and 304L base metals. The "LSi" classification denotes a modification to the standard 308L chemistry, incorporating a higher silicon content (typically 0.65-1.00%) alongside the low carbon formulation. This precise chemical balance delivers superior arc stability and weld puddle fluidity, essential for automated and high-speed manual welding operations.

In industrial environments, efficiency and weld quality are paramount. The increased silicon in this wire improves the "wetting" action of the molten pool, allowing the metal to flow more smoothly into the toes of the weld. This results in a flatter bead profile with exceptionally smooth tie-ins, significantly reducing the labor hours required for post-weld grinding and polishing. Furthermore, the low carbon content (maximum 0.03%) minimizes the risk of carbide precipitation, ensuring the weld zone maintains high resistance to intergranular corrosion—a critical factor for tanks, piping, and structural components in chemical and food processing industries.

Packaged on a durable 33lb (15kg) spool, this wire is optimized for stationary shop welders and industrial wire feeders, reducing downtime associated with frequent spool changes. The precision layer winding ensures consistent wire feeding without tangles or snags, promoting a stable arc and reducing contact tip wear. Whether utilized in spray transfer or short-circuit transfer modes, the ER308LSi wire provides reliable, defect-free welds with excellent cosmetic appearance and mechanical integrity. It is compatible with standard shielding gas mixtures, including Argon/CO2 and Helium-based Tri-mixes, offering versatility across various joint configurations and material thicknesses. For facilities demanding consistent metallurgical properties and high productivity, this Central Wire product delivers proven performance.

Additional Information
Packaging Description:33 lb spool
Weld Process:MIG
AWS Spec :ER308LSI
Packaging:25-33lb spool, 33lb spool
Grade:308 HISI
Diameter:0.035
Polarity:DC+
Brand:Central Wire
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Wire Diameter:0.035"
Wire Type:Solid
Shielding Gas Requirement:Argon/CO2 Mix, Tri-Mix (He/Ar/CO2)
Spool Size:33lb
AWS Classification:ER308LSi
Applications:Architectural, Chemical Tanks, Food Service Equipment, General Fabrication
----- new values below ----
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Wire Diameter:0.035"
Wire Type:Solid
Shielding Gas Requirement:Argon/CO2 Mix, Tri-Mix (He/Ar/CO2)
Spool Size:33lb
AWS Classification:ER308LSi
Applications:Food Service Equipment, Chemical Tanks, General Fabrication, Architectural
aws-spec:er308lsi
brand:central-wire
diameter:0-035
grade:308-hisi
packaging:33lb-spool
weld-process:mig
polarity:dc

INCLUDED

  • 1 x 33lb Spool of ER308LSi .035" Stainless Steel MIG Wire

APPLICATIONS

  • Welding 304 and 304L Stainless Steel
  • Food and Beverage Equipment Fabrication
  • Chemical Processing Tanks
  • Architectural Stainless Structures
  • General Maintenance and Repair
  • Automotive Exhaust Systems

FAQ

The 'Si' stands for Silicon. ER308LSi has a higher silicon content (0.65-1.00%) compared to standard ER308L. This addition increases the fluidity of the weld puddle, improving 'wetting' action at the toes of the weld and resulting in a flatter, smoother bead profile. This can reduce post-weld grinding and finishing time.

For ER308LSi MIG wire, a mixture of Argon and CO2 (typically 98% Argon / 2% CO2) or an Argon/Oxygen mix (98% Argon / 2% Oxygen) is commonly used to ensure arc stability and minimize carbon pickup. Tri-mix gases (Helium/Argon/CO2) are also excellent, particularly for short-circuit transfer, providing a flatter bead and better penetration.

It is not recommended. ER308LSi is designed for welding 304 and 304L stainless steels. Welding 316 stainless requires ER316L wire, which contains Molybdenum to match the corrosion resistance properties of the base metal. Using 308LSi on 316 base metal may result in a weld with lower corrosion resistance than the surrounding material.

This solid MIG wire requires Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP), also known as Reverse Polarity. Ensure your welding machine is set up correctly to achieve a stable arc and proper penetration.

Yes, ER308LSi is commonly used in the fabrication of food service equipment and sanitary piping made from 304 or 304L stainless steel. The smooth bead profile helps minimize crevices where bacteria could accumulate, provided the weld is properly finished and passivated.

The 'L' stands for 'Low Carbon'. This indicates that the carbon content is restricted to a maximum of 0.03%. Low carbon content is crucial for preventing carbide precipitation during welding, which protects the weld area from intergranular corrosion and ensures the longevity of the joint.

This is a standard 12-inch diameter spool (33lb/15kg). It fits most industrial-sized MIG welders and wire feeders. It will not fit smaller hobbyist welders that only accept 4-inch (2lb) or 8-inch (10lb) spools without an external spool holder or adapter.

Yes, it is highly recommended to use a Teflon, plastic, or carbon fiber liner when welding stainless steel. Standard steel liners can contaminate the stainless wire with iron particles, leading to rust in the final weld. Additionally, ensure your drive rolls are clean and appropriate for solid wire (V-groove).