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308L32 - ER308L 1/8" Stainless TIG Filler Metal - 10lb Tube

Packaging: 10 lb tube
$15.24/lb $95.30/10 lb tube only $9.53/lbSave 37%

In stock

OVERVIEW

Reliable 1/8" 308L TIG Rods for Clean Stainless Projects

When you are welding 304 stainless steel and need a filler metal that flows smoothly and produces a bead you can be proud of, reach for Central Wire's ER308L TIG rods. This 3.2mm (1/8 inch) version is the heavy-hitter in your arsenal, perfect for those thicker joints where a 1/16" rod just won't lay down enough metal. Whether you are fabricating custom kitchen equipment, repairing stainless tanks, or working on architectural railings, these rods give you the control and consistency you need to get the job done right the first time.

The "L" in 308L stands for Low Carbon, which is a big deal if you want your welds to last. It prevents the stainless from losing its rust-fighting properties along the weld boundary, keeping your project looking good and holding strong for years. These rods are known for their clean melt-off and stable arc, meaning you spend less time fighting the puddle and more time laying down perfect dimes. The 36-inch length is standard for easy handling, and the stiffness of the 1/8" diameter makes feeding the rod into the puddle precise and effortless, even with gloves on.

Packaged in a sturdy 10lb tube, these rods stay straight and clean in your truck or shop. No more bent ends or contaminated filler. If you are welding standard 304 or 304L stainless, this is the go-to rod that professional TIG welders trust for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Stop struggling with inferior fillers and experience the difference a quality rod makes in your bead profile and color.

Additional Information
Brand:Central Wire
AWS Spec:ER308L
Diameter:3.2mm (1/8")
Grade:308
Packaging:10 lb Tube
Weld Process:TIG (GTAW)
Polarity:DCEN
Material Composition:Stainless Steel
Rod Length:36 inches
Shielding Gas:100% Argon
Alloy Type:Austenitic Stainless
Carbon Content:Low Carbon (0.03% max)
Packaging Description:10 lb tube

INCLUDED

  • 10lb Tube of ER308L Stainless Steel TIG Rods (3.2mm / 1/8")
  • Product Label with Heat Number/Lot Traceability

APPLICATIONS

  • Food and Beverage Processing Equipment
  • Chemical and Petrochemical Piping Systems
  • Architectural Stainless Steel Structures
  • Dairy and Pharmaceutical Tanks
  • General Fabrication of 304/304L Stainless Steel
  • Heat Exchangers and Boilers

FAQ

The 'L' stands for Low Carbon. ER308L has a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, whereas standard ER308 can have up to 0.08%. The lower carbon content in 308L prevents carbide precipitation at the grain boundaries, which reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion (sensitization) in the weld area.

It is not recommended. For joining mild steel to stainless steel, you should use an ER309L filler metal. ER309L has higher chromium and nickel content to compensate for the dilution from the mild steel, preventing cracking.

For TIG welding stainless steel with ER308L, 100% Argon is the standard shielding gas. It provides a stable arc and protects the molten puddle from atmospheric contamination.

Yes, generally 3.2mm is too thick for thin sheet metal (like 16 or 18 gauge). For thin materials, a 1.6mm (1/16") or even 1.0mm (0.040") rod allows for better heat control and a smaller bead. Use the 3.2mm rod for plate thicknesses of 1/8" and up.

You can use 2% Thoriated (Red), 2% Lanthanated (Blue), or 2% Ceriated (Grey) tungsten. 2% Lanthanated is a popular all-purpose choice that works excellently for DCEN stainless welding.

Stainless steel TIG rods should be stored in a clean, dry environment. While they do not absorb moisture like stick electrodes, keeping them in their closed tube prevents dust, oil, and shop debris from contaminating the surface, which could cause porosity.

A typical undiluted weld metal deposit using ER308L will have a tensile strength of approximately 85,000 PSI (590 MPa) and a yield strength of roughly 58,000 PSI (400 MPa), depending on welding parameters.

While it might physically weld, it is not the correct match. 321 and 347 are stabilized grades. You should use ER321 or ER347 filler metals respectively to maintain the stabilization properties of the base metal at high temperatures.