Stainless Stick
SMAW with stainless steel covered electrodes for austenitic stainless steel fabrication and dissimilar metal joints.
Stainless Stick Electrodes
E308L-16
The standard stainless steel stick rod. Matches 304/304L austenitic stainless base metal.
E309L-16
Dissimilar metal rod. Joins stainless to carbon steel, or welds 309 stainless base metal.
E316L-16
Molybdenum-bearing stainless stick electrode for marine, chemical, and chloride environments.
E310-16
25Cr-20Ni high-temperature stainless electrode for furnace parts, kiln linings, and heat-treating fixtures.
E312-16
High-chromium, high-nickel stainless electrode for dissimilar metals and unknown stainless alloys. Maximum crack resistance.
Stainless Steel Electrode Questions
What stainless steel welding rod should I use?
For 304/304L stainless, use E308L-16. For joining stainless to carbon steel, use E309L-16. The L (low carbon) versions prevent intergranular corrosion.
Can you weld stainless steel with a regular welding rod?
No. Carbon steel rods will contaminate stainless steel and compromise its corrosion resistance. Always use a stainless filler metal that matches or over-alloys the base metal.
Do stainless steel welding rods need to be stored in an oven?
E308L-16 and E309L-16 are less moisture-sensitive than low-hydrogen carbon steel rods like E7018, but dry storage is still recommended. Keep them sealed until use and avoid prolonged exposure to humidity.