S689212-078 - Hobart FabCO 309LT1 .045" Gas Shielded Flux Core Stainless Wire, 27.5 lb Spool

Technical Overview of Hobart FabCO 309LT1

The Hobart FabCO 309LT1 is a premium gas-shielded flux-cored stainless steel wire designed to meet the rigorous demands of industrial fabrication. Classified under AWS E309LT1-1 and E309LT1-4, this consumable is engineered for the joining of common austenitic stainless steels, as well as the critical application of welding stainless steel to carbon or low-alloy steels. The wire features a nominal diameter of .045 inches and is supplied in a 27.5 lb spool, making it suitable for medium to heavy-duty industrial wire feeders.

One of the primary technical advantages of the FabCO 309LT1 is its all-position capability. Unlike many flux-cored wires that are restricted to flat and horizontal positions, this product maintains arc stability and puddle control in vertical and overhead orientations. This versatility allows for complex structural welding without the need for repositioning heavy assemblies. The flux formulation provides a spray-like arc transfer, which significantly enhances deposition efficiency and bead profile while minimizing spatter generation.

Metallurgically, the wire deposits a low-carbon 309L chemistry, which reduces the risk of carbide precipitation and intergranular corrosion. This makes it an excellent choice for buffer layers when cladding carbon steel with stainless steel. The flux system is also designed with high moisture resistance, a critical feature for maintaining low hydrogen levels and preventing porosity defects in environments with fluctuating humidity. The slag system is self-detaching in most conditions, revealing a bright, clean weld bead that requires minimal post-weld mechanical treatment.

This product is widely utilized in sectors such as petrochemical processing, food and beverage equipment manufacturing, and pulp and paper production. It serves as a reliable solution for maintenance and repair operations (MRO) where dissimilar metals must be joined with high structural integrity. The wire requires an external shielding gas, typically 100% CO2 or a 75% Argon / 25% CO2 mixture, depending on the specific mechanical property requirements and operator preference.