Marine Stainless vs Standard Stainless Stick Electrode
E316L-16 moly-bearing vs E308L-16 standard stainless. The choice depends on whether chloride corrosion is a concern.
Which One Should You Use?
Pick E316L-16 if:
Runs on AC, DCEP, 40-160A range. E316L-16 full amperage chart
Pick E308L-16 if:
Runs on AC, DCEP, 30-160A range. E308L-16 full amperage chart
Key Differences
| Attribute | E316L-16 | E308L-16 |
|---|---|---|
| Molybdenum Content | ~2% Mo - pitting resistance | None |
| Chloride Resistance | Excellent - resists pitting | Moderate - vulnerable to pitting |
| Cost | Higher (moly is expensive) | Lower |
| Base Metal Match | 316, 316L stainless | 304, 304L stainless |
| Weldability | Identical arc characteristics | Identical arc characteristics |
| Tensile Strength | 75,000 psi | 75,000 psi |
| Marine Suitable | Yes - designed for saltwater exposure | No - will pit in saltwater |
| Food Grade | Yes - pharmaceutical and food | Yes - if no chloride cleaning agents |
Settings at a Glance
Machine settings and operating characteristics side by side. For full amperage charts, see the individual electrode pages.
| Setting | E316L-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" | 100-160A | 75-120A |
How E316L-16 and E308L-16 Work Together
If the weld will never see saltwater, chlorine, or acidic chemicals, save money and use E308L-16. It covers 304 and 304L applications perfectly. If there is any chloride exposure, including coastal environments, pool equipment, or chemical processing, use E316L-16. The molybdenum in 316L is what prevents pitting in chloride environments. There is no functional difference in weldability between the two rods. 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 Marine Stainless
Using E308L-16 on 316L base metal because it was cheaper and available. The weld will be the weak point for corrosion. The moly in the base metal does not transfer to the weld. You must use 316L filler to get 316L corrosion resistance in the weld.
Practical Differences
| Factor | E316L-16 | E308L-16 |
|---|---|---|
| Common Brands | Excalibur 316/316L-16, Arcaloy 316L-16 | Excalibur 308/308L-16, Arcaloy 308L-16 |
Where to Buy
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E316L-16 vs E308L-16: Common Questions
Which is better, E316L-16 or E308L-16?
Different rods for different jobs. Key differences: Molybdenum Content: E316L-16 has ~2% mo - pitting resistance, while E308L-16 has none. Chloride Resistance: E316L-16 has excellent - resists pitting, while E308L-16 has moderate - vulnerable to pitting. Cost: E316L-16 has higher (moly is expensive), while E308L-16 has lower. Match the rod to the work, not the other way around.
Can I substitute E316L-16 for E308L-16?
Not a straight swap.
Can I use both E316L-16 and E308L-16 on the same joint?
If the weld will never see saltwater, chlorine, or acidic chemicals, save money and use E308L-16. It covers 304 and 304L applications perfectly. If there is any chloride exposure, including coastal environments, pool equipment, or chemical processing, use E316L-16. The molybdenum in 316L is what prevents pitting in chloride environments. There is no functional difference in weldability between the two rods. 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.