Home Shop ER308L Stainless Steel MIG Welding Wire, 0.045 in, 10 lb Spool
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308L045-10 - ER308L Stainless Steel MIG Welding Wire, 0.045 in, 10 lb Spool

Packaging: 1of1
$16.74/lb

Package Price:

$167.40/1of1

In stock

SKU: TEC308L045-10 Categories: ,

OVERVIEW

Technical Overview of ER308L Stainless Steel MIG Wire

The Techniweld ER308L Stainless Steel MIG Wire is a premium consumable designed for the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) of austenitic stainless steels. This specific alloy is formulated with a nominal composition of 20% chromium and 10% nickel, adhering strictly to AWS A5.9 specifications. The 'L' designation indicates a controlled low carbon content (maximum 0.03%), which is critical for minimizing the risk of carbide precipitation at the grain boundaries. This feature significantly enhances the weld's resistance to intergranular corrosion without the need for post-weld heat treatment, making it the standard choice for welding 304 and 304L base metals.

This 0.045-inch (1.2mm) diameter wire is engineered for heavier fabrication tasks where higher deposition rates are required. The wire surface is precision-cleaned and treated to ensure optimal electrical conductivity and smooth feeding through standard MIG gun liners. It exhibits excellent mechanical properties, typically delivering a tensile strength of approximately 87,000 PSI and elongation of 35%. The balanced chemistry, often including a slight silicon enhancement, promotes excellent wetting action, resulting in a flat bead profile and smooth tie-ins, which reduces grinding labor.

Operational parameters for this wire typically require Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP). Shielding gas selection is crucial for performance; a tri-mix of Helium (90%), Argon (7.5%), and CO2 (2.5%) is often preferred for short-circuit transfer to produce flat welds with minimal spatter. Alternatively, a 98% Argon / 2% Oxygen mix can be used for spray transfer modes in flat and horizontal positions. This 10lb spool is packaged to prevent moisture contamination, ensuring porosity-free welds right out of the box.

Key Technical Specifications

  • AWS Classification: ER308L
  • Diameter: 0.045" (1.2mm)
  • Alloy Type: Austenitic Stainless Steel
  • Carbon Content: < 0.03%
  • Ferrite Number: Controlled for crack resistance
Additional Information
Packaging Description:1of1
Weld Process:MIG
AWS Spec :ER308L
Packaging:10lb-spool, 10lb spool
Grade:308
Diameter:0-045, 0.045
Polarity:AC or DC+, DCEP
Brand:Generic
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Wire Diameter:0.045"
Wire Type:Solid
Shielding Gas Requirement:Argon/Oxygen Mix, Tri-Mix (He/Ar/CO2)
Spool Size:10lb
AWS Classification:ER308L
Applications:Chemical Tanks, Food Processing Equipment, General Fabrication

INCLUDED

  • 1 x 10lb Spool of ER308L Stainless Steel MIG Wire (0.045")
  • Moisture-resistant packaging

APPLICATIONS

  • Food and beverage processing equipment manufacturing
  • Chemical and pharmaceutical storage tanks
  • Architectural stainless steel structures and railings
  • Automotive exhaust systems and trim
  • General maintenance and repair of 304 stainless steel components
  • Dairy and brewery equipment fabrication

FAQ

For short-circuit transfer (common in thinner gauges or out-of-position welding), a Tri-Mix of 90% Helium, 7.5% Argon, and 2.5% CO2 is recommended. For spray transfer on thicker materials, use 98% Argon with 2% Oxygen (or CO2). Avoid 100% CO2 or 75/25 Argon/CO2 as the carbon pickup will ruin the stainless properties.

It is not recommended. While it might physically weld, ER308L does not contain Molybdenum, which gives 316 stainless its superior corrosion resistance. You should use ER316L wire for 316 base metals to maintain corrosion properties.

Yes, it is highly recommended to use a Teflon, plastic, or carbon fiber liner rather than a steel liner. Steel liners can abrade the wire and deposit iron particles, leading to rust streaks in your stainless weld.

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 prevents carbide precipitation and intergranular corrosion, making 'L' grade superior for corrosion resistance.

This solid MIG wire requires Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP), also known as Reverse Polarity.

This is typically an 8-inch diameter spool. It fits most industrial wire feeders and many portable MIG welders that accept 8-inch spools. Check your machine's manual for spool size compatibility.

U-groove drive rolls are preferred for stainless steel and aluminum to prevent flattening or shaving the wire, which can clog liners. However, V-groove rolls can be used if tension is set correctly and not overtightened.

No, ER308L is designed for stainless-to-stainless welding. For joining mild steel to stainless steel, you should use ER309L wire to prevent cracking due to dilution.

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