Hobart ER308/308L Stainless Steel TIG Rod - 1/8 in - 1 lb Tube

Hobart S512546-017: Professional Grade 308/308L TIG Filler Metal

Achieve superior weld quality with Hobart's S512546-017 ER308/308L TIG welding rods. Designed for the professional welder who demands consistency and performance, these rods are formulated to provide excellent wetting action, a stable arc, and an aesthetically pleasing bead profile. This product is supplied in a 1 lb tube, offering a practical solution for job sites or specialized repairs where large inventory is not required. The 1/8-inch (3.2mm) diameter is perfectly suited for multi-pass welding on thicker sections of stainless steel plate and pipe.

The metallurgy of this filler metal is balanced to provide a microstructure that resists cracking while maintaining high strength and ductility. The nominal composition includes approximately 20% Chromium and 10% Nickel, matching the chemistry of the most common austenitic stainless steels. The "L" grade specification ensures that the carbon content is kept ultra-low. This is essential for applications involving service in corrosive environments or where post-weld heat treatment is not possible. By preventing the formation of chromium carbides at the grain boundaries, the weld zone retains the full corrosion-resistant properties of the base metal.

Technical Application Notes:

This filler metal is designed for use with 100% Argon shielding gas on DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative) polarity. It is the standard choice for joining Type 304 and 304L stainless steels but can also be used for Types 301, 302, and 321 (if stabilized with titanium). The 1/8" diameter allows for higher amperage settings, increasing travel speed and deposition rates on heavier wall thicknesses. Welders will appreciate the clean surface finish of the rods, which minimizes the introduction of contaminants into the weld pool, reducing the risk of porosity and inclusions.

Typical Applications:

• Food and Beverage: Welding of tanks, piping, and processing equipment where sanitation and corrosion resistance are critical.
• Chemical Processing: Fabrication of vessels and transfer lines exposed to corrosive agents.
• General Fabrication: Structural stainless steel components, railings, and architectural features.
• Maintenance and Repair: Fixing cracks or wear on existing stainless steel machinery.

Hobart's commitment to quality control means that every tube of S512546-017 meets rigorous standards. For critical welds requiring documented compliance and superior mechanical properties, this ER308/308L filler metal is the industry-standard choice.