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308L32 - ER308L 1/8" Stainless TIG Filler Metal - 10lb Tube

Packaging: 10 lb tube
$15.24/lb $95.30/10 lb tube only $9.53/lbSave 37%

In stock

OVERVIEW

High-Performance ER308L Austenitic Stainless Steel TIG Rods

The Central Wire ER308L TIG Welding Rod is a premium-grade consumable designed for the rigorous demands of industrial stainless steel fabrication. Engineered to meet AWS A5.9 and ASME SFA 5.9 classifications, this filler metal is the industry standard for joining Type 304 and 304L austenitic stainless steels. The "L" designation indicates a controlled low carbon content (maximum 0.03%), which is critical for minimizing carbide precipitation during the welding process. This feature significantly enhances the weld's resistance to intergranular corrosion, making it suitable for applications where the finished product will be exposed to corrosive environments or high temperatures.

With a diameter of 3.2mm (1/8 inch), this rod is optimized for welding medium to heavy gauge plates and piping. It provides a higher deposition rate compared to thinner diameters, allowing for efficient fill passes in multi-pass welding procedures. The chemical composition includes approximately 20% chromium and 10% nickel, ensuring that the weld metal matches the base material's mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Central Wire Industries employs strict quality control measures during manufacturing, resulting in a rod with a clean, consistent surface finish that promotes stable arc characteristics and excellent wetting action.

Fabricators in the petrochemical, food and beverage, and power generation sectors rely on ER308L for its consistent performance and metallurgical integrity. The rods are supplied in a durable 10lb tube, protecting them from atmospheric moisture and physical damage during storage and transport. Each rod is typically stamped or identified to ensure material traceability on the shop floor, a vital requirement for code-compliant welding operations.

Additional Information
Packaging Description:10 lb tube
Weld Process:TIG
AWS Spec :ER308L
Packaging:10lb tube
Grade:308
Diameter:3.2mm, 3.2mm (3-2mm)
Polarity:DC+, DCEN
Brand:Central Wire
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Alloy Type:Austenitic Stainless
----- new values below ----
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Rod Length:36 inches
Shielding Gas:100% Argon
Alloy Type:Austenitic Stainless
Carbon Content:Low Carbon (0.03% max)
Brand:Central Wire
AWS Spec:ER308L
Diameter:3.2mm (3-2mm)
Grade:308
Packaging:10lb tube
Weld Process:TIG
Polarity:DCEN

INCLUDED

  • 10lb Tube of ER308L Stainless Steel TIG Rods (3.2mm / 1/8")
  • Product Label with Heat Number/Lot Traceability

APPLICATIONS

  • Food and Beverage Processing Equipment
  • Chemical and Petrochemical Piping Systems
  • Architectural Stainless Steel Structures
  • Dairy and Pharmaceutical Tanks
  • General Fabrication of 304/304L Stainless Steel
  • Heat Exchangers and Boilers

FAQ

The 'L' stands for Low Carbon. ER308L has a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, whereas standard ER308 can have up to 0.08%. The lower carbon content in 308L prevents carbide precipitation at the grain boundaries, which reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion (sensitization) in the weld area.

It is not recommended. For joining mild steel to stainless steel, you should use an ER309L filler metal. ER309L has higher chromium and nickel content to compensate for the dilution from the mild steel, preventing cracking.

For TIG welding stainless steel with ER308L, 100% Argon is the standard shielding gas. It provides a stable arc and protects the molten puddle from atmospheric contamination.

Yes, generally 3.2mm is too thick for thin sheet metal (like 16 or 18 gauge). For thin materials, a 1.6mm (1/16") or even 1.0mm (0.040") rod allows for better heat control and a smaller bead. Use the 3.2mm rod for plate thicknesses of 1/8" and up.

You can use 2% Thoriated (Red), 2% Lanthanated (Blue), or 2% Ceriated (Grey) tungsten. 2% Lanthanated is a popular all-purpose choice that works excellently for DCEN stainless welding.

Stainless steel TIG rods should be stored in a clean, dry environment. While they do not absorb moisture like stick electrodes, keeping them in their closed tube prevents dust, oil, and shop debris from contaminating the surface, which could cause porosity.

A typical undiluted weld metal deposit using ER308L will have a tensile strength of approximately 85,000 PSI (590 MPa) and a yield strength of roughly 58,000 PSI (400 MPa), depending on welding parameters.

While it might physically weld, it is not the correct match. 321 and 347 are stabilized grades. You should use ER321 or ER347 filler metals respectively to maintain the stabilization properties of the base metal at high temperatures.