E310-16 High-Temperature Stainless Welding Rod
E310-16 Amperage by Diameter
| Diameter | Amperage Range |
|---|---|
| 3/32" (2.4 mm) | 40 - 80A |
| 1/8" (3.2 mm) | 70 - 120A |
| 5/32" (4 mm) | 100 - 155A |
E310-16 is an austenitic stainless steel electrode classified under AWS A5.4 that deposits 25Cr-20Ni weld metal. The high chromium and nickel content provides exceptional oxidation resistance and retains useful strength at temperatures up to 2000F (1100C). The -16 coating runs on AC or DCEP with good arc stability. E310-16 is used for welding AISI 310, 310S, 314, and similar heat-resisting stainless steels. Common applications include furnace parts, radiant tubes, heat-treating baskets and fixtures, kiln linings, cement plant equipment, and petrochemical reformer tubes. It can also be used for dissimilar metal joints between stainless and carbon steel when the service temperature is above 800F, though E309L-16 is more common for lower-temperature dissimilar joints.
What This Means in Practice
E310-16 deposits a 25% chromium, 20% nickel stainless alloy that resists oxidation and retains strength at temperatures up to 2000F. This is not a general-purpose stainless rod. It exists specifically for equipment that operates at extreme temperatures where standard 308L or 316L would fail.
E310-16 Suitability Scores
How well this electrode matches common applications. Not a quality rating. all AWS-certified electrodes meet their specification.
When to Use E310-16
Use E310-16 for welding 310 or 310S stainless steel, or for any application where the weld will be exposed to sustained temperatures above 800F.
Required for furnace components, heat-treating fixtures, radiant tubes, and kiln equipment.
Also suitable for cladding or overlay where oxidation resistance at high temperature is the primary requirement.
E310-16 Limitations
Significantly more expensive than E308L-16.
Not suitable as a general-purpose stainless rod.
The high alloy content makes the weld deposit more susceptible to hot cracking in thick sections.
Requires careful interpass temperature control.
Not appropriate for cryogenic or sub-zero service despite its high nickel content.
E310-16 Storage Requirements
Store sealed in dry conditions. Reconditioning temperature: 500-600F for 1 hour if exposed to moisture.
E310-16 Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| AWS Classification | E310-16 |
| Process | stainless-electrodes () |
| Polarity | AC, DCEP |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical up, overhead |
| Penetration | medium |
| Coating Type | rutile (titania) |
| Tensile Strength | 80,000 psi |
| Yield Strength | 55,000 psi |
| Elongation | 30% |
| Base Metals | 310 stainless steel, 310S stainless steel, 314 stainless steel, Heat-resisting Cr-Ni steels |
| AWS Specification | A5.4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature can E310-16 handle?
E310-16 weld deposits resist oxidation and retain useful strength at temperatures up to 2000F (1100C). This makes it suitable for furnace parts, radiant tubes, heat-treating fixtures, and kiln linings where standard 308L or 316L stainless would lose strength and oxidize.
Can I use E310-16 for general stainless welding?
No. E310-16 is a specialty electrode for high-temperature applications. Its 25Cr-20Ni chemistry is significantly more expensive than E308L-16 and provides no advantage at normal service temperatures. Use E308L-16 for general 304 stainless work, E316L-16 for marine or chemical applications, and reserve E310-16 for equipment that actually operates above 800F.
Is E310-16 the same as E310H-16?
No. E310H-16 has a higher carbon content (0.04-0.08%) compared to standard E310-16 (0.08-0.20%). The H designation stands for higher carbon, which actually improves creep strength at elevated temperatures. For most high-temperature repair and fabrication work, standard E310-16 is sufficient. E310H-16 is specified for specific pressure vessel and boiler code applications.
External Resources
Manufacturer data sheets and standards for E310-16.
Data sourced from AWS A5.4/A5.4M. Amperage ranges are approximate starting points. adjust based on position, fit-up, and material thickness. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and applicable codes.