101290 - Central Wire ER316L 1/8" Stainless TIG Rod - 10lb Tube

Technical Overview of Central Wire ER316L TIG Rod

The Central Wire ER316L Stainless Steel TIG Rod (3.2mm / 1/8") is a premium filler metal designed for the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) of austenitic stainless steels bearing molybdenum. Conforming to AWS A5.9 specifications, this alloy is primarily composed of Chromium (18-20%), Nickel (11-14%), and Molybdenum (2-3%). The addition of Molybdenum is the defining characteristic of the 316 series, providing significantly enhanced resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, particularly in chloride-rich environments such as marine atmospheres or chemical processing plants.

The "L" designation indicates an Extra Low Carbon content, capped at a maximum of 0.03%. This controlled chemistry is critical for preventing sensitization—the formation of chromium carbides at the grain boundaries—during the welding process. By mitigating carbide precipitation, the ER316L alloy maintains the corrosion resistance of the weld heat-affected zone (HAZ), eliminating the need for post-weld annealing in most applications. This makes it an excellent choice for welding 316 and 316L base metals, as well as stabilized grades like 318, provided the service temperature does not exceed 400°C.

Mechanically, the deposited weld metal exhibits high tensile strength and excellent ductility. The 3.2mm diameter is well-suited for multi-pass welding on medium-to-thick sections of pipe or plate, offering a deposition rate that balances control with efficiency. Central Wire ensures a clean, consistent surface finish on these cut lengths, reducing the risk of contamination in the weld pool and ensuring reliable arc starting and stability.