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S480651-032 - Hobart Sterling AP E312-16 Stainless Stick Electrode 5/32"

Packaging: 18lb can
$46.76/lb $420.84/18lb can only $23.38/lbSave 50%

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OVERVIEW

Hobart Sterling AP 312: The Ultimate Problem Solver

When you are out in the field facing a broken part made of mystery metal, or you need to join a stainless bracket to a mild steel frame, the Hobart Sterling AP 312 is the rod you want in your stinger. Known among professional welders as a "universal" repair rod, this 5/32-inch stick electrode is formulated to handle the toughest jobs that would cause other rods to crack or fail. It is the perfect addition to any maintenance welder's arsenal, specifically designed to weld dissimilar joints and high-strength alloys with confidence.

The "AP" stands for All Position, and this rod lives up to the name. Whether you are welding flat, horizontal, vertical, or overhead, the Sterling AP 312 delivers a smooth, buttery arc that is easy to manipulate. One of its standout features is the slag release—in many cases, the slag will curl up and pop off by itself as the weld cools, leaving you with a clean, shiny bead that requires minimal wire brushing. This saves you valuable time on the job site and results in professional-looking repairs every time.

This electrode isn't just for show; it's built for strength. It is excellent for repairing steel armor, tool steels, and heavy machinery components that are subject to high stress and wear. Compatible with both AC and DC welding machines, it offers great flexibility regardless of your power source. If you deal with equipment repairs, farm machinery, or custom fabrication involving mixed metals, keeping a can of Hobart Sterling AP 312 on hand ensures you are ready for whatever challenge comes through the shop door.

Additional Information
Brand:Hobart
Grade:312
Diameter:4.0mm (5/32")
AWS Spec:E312-16
Weld Process:Stick (SMAW)
Polarity:AC/DCEP
Rod Type:Stick Electrode
Core Material:Stainless Steel
Coating Type:Rutile
Welding Position:All Position
Tensile Strength:120,000 PSI (Approx)
Packaging Type:Can
Packaging Description:18lb can

INCLUDED

  • Hobart Sterling AP 312 Stick Electrodes (5/32" Diameter)
  • Protective Can Packaging

APPLICATIONS

  • Joining dissimilar metals (e.g., stainless to carbon steel)
  • Repairing hard-to-weld steels and high-carbon alloys
  • Welding abrasion-resistant plates and armor steel
  • Maintenance and repair of heavy equipment and machinery
  • Tool and die repair
  • Building up worn shafts and gear teeth
  • General fabrication involving unknown steel grades

FAQ

It is classified as an E312-16 stainless steel electrode.

Yes, it is excellent for joining mild steel to stainless steel or for repairing high-strength mild steels where cracking is a concern.

This electrode operates on both DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive) and AC (Alternating Current).

Yes, the Sterling AP 312 is an all-position electrode, suitable for flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead welding.

Its high ferrite content prevents hot cracking, and its high tensile strength accommodates the stresses in hardened or difficult-to-weld base metals.

Yes, the Sterling AP 312 is known for its self-detaching slag, which often lifts off by itself as the weld cools.

This item is 5/32 inch in diameter.

While keeping them dry is important, E312-16 rods are not as sensitive to moisture as low-hydrogen carbon steel rods. However, storing them in a rod oven or a dry, sealed container is recommended for best performance.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet
Safety Data Sheet