ED033079 - Lincoln Excalibur 308L-16 Stainless Stick Electrode 3/32 Inch

Technical Overview of Lincoln Electric Excalibur® 308L-16

The Lincoln Electric Excalibur® 308L-16 is a premium Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) electrode designed for the high-quality fabrication of austenitic stainless steels. Engineered to meet AWS A5.4 specifications with the classification E308L-16, this consumable is specifically formulated to join Types 302, 304, and 304L stainless steels, as well as cast alloys such as A743 and A744 Type CF-8. The 'L' designation indicates a low carbon content (maximum 0.04%), which is critical for minimizing the risk of carbide precipitation and intergranular corrosion during service in corrosive environments.

A defining feature of the Excalibur® line is the Q2 Lot® program. This quality assurance protocol ensures that every lot is tested and certified, providing end-users with access to actual deposit composition and Ferrite Number (FN) data online. This level of traceability is essential for industries requiring strict adherence to welding procedure specifications (WPS) and code requirements, such as petrochemical processing, food and beverage manufacturing, and pharmaceutical equipment fabrication.

The electrode features a specialized flux coating that promotes a smooth, stable arc transfer on both Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP) and Alternating Current (AC). The coating formulation is optimized to produce a flat bead profile with fine ripple consistency, reducing the need for extensive post-weld grinding. While versatile enough for flat, horizontal, and overhead positions, it is not recommended for vertical down welding. The 3/32-inch (2.4 mm) diameter and 12-inch (300 mm) length provide a balance of deposition rate and control for precision applications.

Metallurgically, the deposited weld metal exhibits excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance comparable to the base material. The controlled ferrite content helps prevent hot cracking, a common issue in fully austenitic weld deposits. By utilizing the Excalibur® 308L-16, fabricators ensure a robust metallurgical bond that meets rigorous industrial standards for stainless steel construction.