High-Temperature vs Standard Stainless Welding Rod
E310-16 for furnace and kiln work vs E308L-16 for general stainless. Use 310 when service temperature exceeds 800F.
Which One Should You Use?
Pick E310-16 if:
Runs on AC, DCEP, 40-155A range. E310-16 full amperage chart
Pick E308L-16 if:
Runs on AC, DCEP, 30-160A range. E308L-16 full amperage chart
Key Differences
| Attribute | E310-16 | E308L-16 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Service Temperature | ~2000F (1100C) | ~800F (425C) continuous |
| Chemistry | 25Cr-20Ni (high alloy) | 18Cr-8Ni (standard) |
| Cost | Significantly higher | Standard stainless pricing |
| Application | Furnaces, kilns, radiant tubes | General stainless fabrication |
| Oxidation Resistance | Excellent at extreme temperature | Good at normal temperature |
| Hot Cracking Risk | Higher in thick sections | Lower |
| Availability | Specialty - limited stock | Common - widely available |
Settings at a Glance
Machine settings and operating characteristics side by side. For full amperage charts, see the individual electrode pages.
| Setting | E310-16 | E308L-16 |
|---|---|---|
| Polarity | AC, DCEP | AC, DCEP |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead |
| Penetration | medium | medium |
| Coating | rutile (titania) | rutile (titania) |
| Amps at 3/32" | 40-80A | 30-60A |
| Amps at 1/8" | 70-120A | 50-90A |
| Amps at 5/32" | 100-155A | 75-120A |
How E310-16 and E308L-16 Work Together
E308L-16 is the workhorse for standard stainless fabrication at normal temperatures. E310-16 is a specialty electrode that only makes sense when the weld will operate at sustained high temperatures. The 25Cr-20Ni chemistry of E310-16 resists oxidation and retains strength at temperatures that would destroy an E308L weld. If the application is a kitchen sink, use E308L-16. If it is a furnace tube, use E310-16. All stainless steel welding generates hexavalent chromium fumes, a known carcinogen. Use local exhaust ventilation or a supplied-air respirator per OSHA requirements.
Common Mistake With High-Temperature
Using E308L-16 to repair furnace components because it is standard stainless. The lower alloy content will oxidize and fail at furnace temperatures. E310-16 costs more but is the only correct choice for high-temperature service.
Practical Differences
| Factor | E310-16 | E308L-16 |
|---|---|---|
| Common Brands | Excalibur 310-16, Arcaloy 310-16 | Excalibur 308/308L-16, Arcaloy 308L-16 |
Where to Buy
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E310-16 vs E308L-16: Common Questions
Which is better, E310-16 or E308L-16?
Different rods for different jobs. Key differences: Max Service Temperature: E310-16 has ~2000f (1100c), while E308L-16 has ~800f (425c) continuous. Chemistry: E310-16 has 25cr-20ni (high alloy), while E308L-16 has 18cr-8ni (standard). Cost: E310-16 has significantly higher, while E308L-16 has standard stainless pricing. Match the rod to the work, not the other way around.
Can I substitute E310-16 for E308L-16?
Not a straight swap.
Can I use both E310-16 and E308L-16 on the same joint?
E308L-16 is the workhorse for standard stainless fabrication at normal temperatures. E310-16 is a specialty electrode that only makes sense when the weld will operate at sustained high temperatures. The 25Cr-20Ni chemistry of E310-16 resists oxidation and retains strength at temperatures that would destroy an E308L weld. If the application is a kitchen sink, use E308L-16. If it is a furnace tube, use E310-16. All stainless steel welding generates hexavalent chromium fumes, a known carcinogen. Use local exhaust ventilation or a supplied-air respirator per OSHA requirements.
Reference data only. Verify all settings against manufacturer documentation and the applicable welding code before use. Amperage ranges are starting points that vary by position, fit-up, and material. Welding involves serious injury risks including burns, electric shock, fume exposure, and fire. This site does not replace proper training, certification, or employer safety procedures. See full terms of use.
Data sourced from AWS A5.4/A5.4M.