ER316L Marine & Chemical Stainless MIG & TIG Wire
ER316L Amperage by Diameter
| Diameter | Amperage Range |
|---|---|
| 0.030" (0.8 mm) | 40 - 150A |
| 0.035" (0.9 mm) | 60 - 200A |
| 0.045" (1.2 mm) | 100 - 300A |
| 1/16" (TIG) (1.6 mm) | 60 - 130A |
| 3/32" (TIG) (2.4 mm) | 100 - 200A |
ER316L is a low-carbon molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel wire classified under AWS A5.9 for MIG (GMAW) and TIG (GTAW) welding. It deposits approximately 18% chromium, 12% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. The molybdenum provides superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-containing environments compared to ER308L. The low carbon content (0.03% max) prevents sensitization and maintains corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone. ER316L is specified whenever welding 316 or 316L stainless base metal, particularly for marine hardware, chemical tanks, pharmaceutical vessels, and food processing equipment. For MIG, use 98Ar/2CO2 or tri-mix shielding gas. Never use 75/25 Ar/CO2 as the high CO2 causes carbon pickup. For TIG, use 100% argon with back purge.
What This Means in Practice
ER316L is the wire version of E316L-16. The 2% molybdenum content provides pitting corrosion resistance in chloride environments. Use it with MIG or TIG equipment to weld 316/316L stainless steel in marine, food, pharmaceutical, and chemical process applications.
ER316L Suitability Scores
How well this electrode matches common applications. Not a quality rating. all AWS-certified electrodes meet their specification.
When to Use ER316L
Use ER316L when welding 316 or 316L stainless steel base metal with MIG or TIG.
Required for marine fabrication, chemical processing, pharmaceutical equipment, food service, and any chloride-exposure application.
The molybdenum content is what differentiates this from ER308L.
ER316L Limitations
Not for carbon steel.
More expensive than ER308L.
Overkill for 304/304L applications without chloride exposure.
Requires proper shielding gas selection.
Do not use 75/25 Ar/CO2 as it will pick up carbon and defeat the low-carbon L designation.
ER316L Storage Requirements
Store in original packaging. Keep dry and free of oil or contaminants.
ER316L Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| AWS Classification | ER316L |
| Process | stainless-wire () |
| Polarity | DCEP |
| Positions | flat, horizontal, vertical up, overhead |
| Penetration | medium |
| Coating Type | bare wire |
| Tensile Strength | 75,000 psi |
| Yield Strength | 55,000 psi |
| Elongation | 35% |
| Base Metals | 316 stainless steel, 316L stainless steel, 316Ti stainless steel |
| Shielding Gas | 98/2 Ar/CO2 (MIG), 100% Ar (TIG) |
| AWS Specification | A5.9 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ER316L and ER308L?
ER316L contains approximately 2% molybdenum, which provides significantly better resistance to pitting corrosion in chloride environments. ER308L has no molybdenum. Use ER316L when welding 316/316L base metal or when the weld will be exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or chlorides. Use ER308L for 304/304L stainless in non-chloride environments.
Can I use 75/25 Ar/CO2 gas with ER316L?
No. The 25% CO2 causes excessive carbon pickup into the weld deposit, which defeats the purpose of the low-carbon L designation. High carbon in the weld promotes carbide precipitation and reduces corrosion resistance. Use 98Ar/2CO2 or tri-mix (90He/7.5Ar/2.5CO2) for MIG welding, or 100% argon for TIG.
Do I need to back purge when TIG welding with ER316L?
Yes, back purging with argon is strongly recommended when TIG welding 316L stainless, especially on pipe or tubing. Without a back purge, the root side of the weld oxidizes (sugaring), which destroys corrosion resistance at the most critical point of the joint. Use aluminum tape or silicone plugs to seal the pipe and flow argon through the inside during welding.
External Resources
Manufacturer data sheets and standards for ER316L.
Data sourced from AWS A5.9/A5.9M. Amperage ranges are approximate starting points. adjust based on position, fit-up, and material thickness. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and applicable codes.