AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG welding wires are some of the industry’s most commonly used filler metals. They are known for their versatility and reliable performance, making them popular among welders of all skill levels. If you are new to welding or simply looking to expand your knowledge, this blog post is for you.
This comprehensive guide will explore the composition, physical and mechanical properties, uses, heat treatment, and corrosion resistance of AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG welding wires. By the end of this article, you will better understand this type of filler metal and be able to make informed decisions when choosing the best welding wire for your project.
What is AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG?
AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG welding wires are a type of austenitic stainless steel wire used for welding. They comprise a mixture of chromium, nickel, and manganese, which gives them excellent corrosion resistance properties. They can be used for welding various types of stainless steel, including 302, 304, and 308.
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Composition
As mentioned, AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG welding wires are made of chromium, nickel, and manganese. The exact composition varies depending on the manufacturer, but typically, they contain between 19% and 22% chromium, 9% and 11% nickel, and 1% to 2.5% manganese. This composition gives them excellent corrosion resistance and improves their strength and toughness.
| C | Cr | Ni | Mo | Mn | Si | P | S | Cu |
| 0.03 | 19.5-22.0 | 9.0-11.0 | 0.75 | 1.0-2.5 | 0.30-0.65 | 0.03 | 0.03 | 0.75 |
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Physical Properties
AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG wires have good physical properties that make them easy to work with. They are easily formed and have a smooth surface, which makes them ideal for MIG and TIG welding applications. They also have a low coefficient of thermal expansion, which reduces the risk of distortion during welding.
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Mechanical Properties
Regarding mechanical properties, AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG electrode offer excellent tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation. They have a high resistance to corrosion, which allows them to withstand harsh environments without corroding. They are also highly malleable, which makes them ideal for welding applications that require a high degree of flexibility.
| Yield, kpsi: | 59 |
| Tensile Strength, kpsi: | 88 |
| Elongation%, min: | 39 |
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Trade Names
| Class | UNS | Oxford Alloys | SANDVIK |
| ER308/308L | S30883 | Alloy 308/308L | EXATON 19.9.L / EXATON 19.9.LR (E308L-17) |
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Parameters
| Diameter | Process | Volt | Amps/Shielding Gas | |
| in | (mm) | |||
| .023 | (0.6) | GMAW | 14-19 | 30-85/98% Argon/2% Oxygen |
| .030 | (0.8) | GMAW | 15-20 | 45-125/98% Argon/2% Oxygen |
| .035 | (0.9) | GMAW | 16-22 | 60-150/98% Argon/2% Oxygen |
| .045 | (1.14) | GMAW | 17-22 | 90-210/98% Argon/2% Oxygen |
| .035 | (0.9) | GTAW | 12-15 | 60-100/100% Argon |
| .045 | (1.14) | GTAW | 13-16 | 70-120/100% Argon |
| 1/16” | (1.6) | GTAW | 12 | 80-150/100% Argon |
| 3/32” | (2.4) | GTAW | 12 | 150-250/100% Argon |
| 1/8” | (3.2) | GTAW | 12 | 200-375/100% Argon |
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Uses
AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG filler metal are versatile and can be used for various applications. They are commonly used in construction, automotive, and food processing industries. They are also suitable for welding dissimilar metals and repairing damaged parts.
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Heat Treatment
AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG filler wires do not typically require heat treatment after welding. However, if necessary, they can be annealed to improve their corrosion resistance properties. Annealing involves heating the wire to a high temperature and cooling it slowly. This process helps to remove any residual stress in the metal and improve its ductility.
ER308/308L MIG & TIG Welding Wire Corrosion Resistance
AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG wires have excellent corrosion resistance properties, making them ideal for harsh environments. They are corrosion-resistant by various chemicals, including nitric acid, sulfuric acid, and acetic acid. They also resist pitting and crevice corrosion, which can occur in chloride-rich environments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AWS Class ER308/308L MIG & TIG welding wires are an excellent choice for welding various types of stainless steel. They offer excellent corrosion resistance and good tensile strength and are highly versatile, making them suitable for various applications. They are easy to work with, have good mechanical and physical properties, and do not require heat treatment after welding. As always, consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and follow proper welding procedures to ensure the best results.
Hey, I’m Krutik, a casual blogger expert in the metal industry. I am passionate about providing valuable information to my readers. With a background in engineering and construction, I like playing Cricket & watching Netflix shows in my free time. Thank you for visiting my blog, and I hope you find my information helpful!
