Marine vs Standard Stainless MIG & TIG Wire
ER316L moly-bearing wire vs ER308L standard stainless wire. Same decision as the stick versions but for MIG and TIG.
Which One Should You Use?
Pick ER316L if:
Runs on DCEP, DCEN, 40-200A range. ER316L full amperage chart
Pick ER308L if:
Runs on DCEP, DCEN, 40-300A range. ER308L full amperage chart
Key Differences
| Attribute | ER316L | ER308L |
|---|---|---|
| Molybdenum | ~2% - pitting resistance | None |
| Base Metal Match | 316/316L stainless | 304/304L stainless |
| Chloride Resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Weldability | Identical handling | Identical handling |
| Marine Suitable | Yes | No |
| Shielding Gas (MIG) | 98Ar/2CO2 or tri-mix | 98Ar/2CO2 or tri-mix |
| Shielding Gas (TIG) | 100% Argon + back purge | 100% Argon + back purge |
Settings at a Glance
Machine settings and operating characteristics side by side. For full amperage charts, see the individual electrode pages.
| Setting | ER316L | ER308L |
|---|---|---|
| Polarity | DCEP, DCEN | DCEP, DCEN |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead | flat, horizontal, vertical-up, overhead |
| Penetration | medium | medium |
| Coating | bare wire | solid wire |
| Amps at 0.030" | 40-150A | N/A |
| Amps at 0.035" | 60-200A | N/A |
| Amps at .030" | N/A | 40-140A |
| Amps at .035" | N/A | 60-200A |
How ER316L and ER308L Work Together
The wire decision mirrors the stick decision exactly. ER308L is correct for 304/304L base metal. ER316L is required for 316/316L base metal or any chloride-exposed application. Both wires handle identically in the MIG or TIG torch. The only difference is chemistry and cost. Do not use ER308L on 316 base metal even though the weld will look fine. The corrosion performance of the weld will not match the base metal. 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
Assuming ER308L will work on 316 stainless because the bead looks identical. The weld will be the first point of corrosion failure in chloride environments because it lacks the molybdenum that makes 316 resistant to pitting.
Practical Differences
| Factor | ER316L | ER308L |
|---|---|---|
| Common Brands | Blue Max 316L, Hobart 316L | Blue Max 308L, Hobart 308L |
Where to Buy
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ER316L vs ER308L: Common Questions
Which is better, ER316L or ER308L?
Wrong question. They solve different problems. Key differences: Molybdenum: ER316L has ~2% - pitting resistance, while ER308L has none. Base Metal Match: ER316L has 316/316l stainless, while ER308L has 304/304l stainless. Chloride Resistance: ER316L has excellent, while ER308L has moderate. The comparison table on this page breaks down each trade-off.
Can I substitute ER316L for ER308L?
Only if the specs allow it. Coating chemistry is different (bare wire vs solid wire), so the arc and slag behave differently.
Can I use both ER316L and ER308L on the same joint?
The wire decision mirrors the stick decision exactly. ER308L is correct for 304/304L base metal. ER316L is required for 316/316L base metal or any chloride-exposed application. Both wires handle identically in the MIG or TIG torch. The only difference is chemistry and cost. Do not use ER308L on 316 base metal even though the weld will look fine. The corrosion performance of the weld will not match the base metal. 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 A5.9/A5.9M.