AWS Class ER308L/308H SAW & Flux
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AWS ER308L/308H SAW Wire & Flux Supplier in Mumbai, India
Nicorex Alloys is an ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified importer, supplier, and stockist of ER308L and ER308H SAW wire and flux based in Mumbai, India. We distribute these submerged arc welding consumables as classified under AWS A5.9 with EN 10204-3.1 mill test certificates and full heat-lot traceability.
ER308L (UNS S30883) and ER308H (UNS S30880) are austenitic stainless steel SAW wires. ER308L has a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, which helps prevent intergranular carbide precipitation, and sensitisation in the 425 to 870°C temperature range. ER308H has a carbon content between 0.04 and 0.08%, which provides better creep‑rupture strength for service above 425°C (800°F). Both wires produce 18Cr-8Ni austenitic weld deposits. The weld metal is controlled to have 5 to 15 FN delta ferrite to reduce the risk of solidification cracking. The wires are available in diameters from 2.0 to 4.0 mm and are supplied in 12.5 kg and 25 kg coils, as well as 100 kg and 250 kg drums. Nicorex supplies these wires with compatible fluxes for submerged arc welding and stainless steel cladding applications.
ER308L is the standard filler metal for welding 304 and 304L stainless steel at normal to moderate temperatures. ER308H is used for 304H stainless steel in high‑temperature ASME BPVC applications. These flux & wires serve industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, power, petrochemicals, nuclear and water treatment.
ER308L/308H SAW Wire & Flux Specification
Key specifications for ER308L and ER308H SAW wire and flux include standards, material designations, wire forms, diameters, finish, and surface finish.
| AWS Standard | A5.9 |
|---|---|
| UNS Designation | S30883 (ER308L) / S30880 (ER308H) |
| Form | Solid bare wire (continuous electrode for SAW) |
| Wire Diameters | 2.0 mm, 2.4 mm, 3.2 mm, 4.0 mm |
| Wire Length | Continuous wire on coils and drums |
| Surface Finish | Clean, bright, free from scale and contaminants |
| Condition | Cold-drawn, solid wire condition |
| Flux | Manufacturer-matched; qualified as a wire–flux system per ASME Section IX |
What Does ER308L/308H Mean? - AWS A5.9 Classification Explained
Each letter and number in the AWS designation carries a specific meaning. Refer to the table below for the detailed breakdown:
| Designation | Meaning | Technical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| E | Electrode | Indicates it can be used as a current-carrying filler metal for arc welding. |
| R | Rod | Indicates it can be used as a filler rod (common in GTAW/TIG welding). |
| 308 | AISI Type 308 | A stainless steel alloy with about 20% chromium and 10% nickel, richer than 304, to prevent weld cracking. |
| L | Low Carbon | Carbon is limited to 0.03% to stop carbide buildup (“sensitisation”) and protect the weld from grain-boundary corrosion. |
| H | High Carbon | Carbon is 0.04-0.08%, which increases creep strength and helps the steel resist deformation at high temperatures. |
The ER prefix means the filler can be used as an electrode for GMAW and SAW, and as a rod for GTAW. The 308 grade has more chromium and nickel than 304, which forms delta ferrite and helps prevent hot cracking. The L grade lowers carbon for corrosion resistance. The H grade increases carbon for creep strength. A filler cannot be both L and H at the same time.
Chemical Composition of ER308L and ER308H (AWS A5.9)
ER308L and ER308H compositions are nearly identical, with carbon content being the primary distinction. Refer to the table below for the detailed chemical composition.
| Material / Element | Carbon (C) | Chromium (Cr) | Nickel (Ni) | Manganese (Mn) | Silicon (Si) | Molybdenum (Mo) | Copper (Cu) | Phosphorus (P) | Sulphur (S) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ER308L (wt%) | 0.03 max | 19.5–22.0 | 9.0–11.0 | 1.0–2.5 | 0.30–0.65 | 0.75 max | 0.75 max | 0.03 max | 0.03 max |
| ER308H (wt%) | 0.04–0.08 | 19.5–22.0 | 9.0–11.0 | 1.0–2.5 | 0.30–0.65 | 0.75 max | 0.75 max | 0.03 max | 0.03 max |
Heat-specific values are confirmed in the EN 10204-3.1 MTC from Nicorex Alloys. The chromium content of 19.5-22.0% and nickel content of 9.0-11.0% give a delta ferrite level of 5-15 FN. Silicon at 0.30-0.65% improves weld pool flow, and molybdenum at a maximum of 0.75% is present only as a residual element.
Mechanical Properties of ER308L/308H Weld Deposit
Typical as-welded properties of ER308L and ER308H welds include their strength, ductility and hardness for easy comparison.
| Property | Ultimate Tensile Strength | Yield Strength (0.2%) | Elongation | Hardness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ER308L Typical (As-Welded) | 75–90 ksi (515–620 MPa) | 45–65 ksi (310–448 MPa) | 35–45% | ~80–90 HRB |
| ER308H Typical (As-Welded) | 80–95 ksi (550–655 MPa) | 50–70 ksi (345–483 MPa) | 30–40% | ~85–95 HRB |
ER308H is stronger because of interstitial strengthening, and it is mainly chosen for its creep‑rupture performance at temperatures above 425°C (800°F). ER308L is more ductile and is preferred where corrosion resistance is the main requirement. Batch-specific properties are given in the EN 10204-3.1 mill test certificate.
Base Metals Compatible with ER308L/308H SAW Wire
Base metal compatibility for ER308L and ER308H SAW wire depends on carbon level, service conditions and the needed strength and corrosion resistance.
| Base Metal | Grade (UNS) | ASME P.No | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 304L | S30403 | P8 | Filler: ER308L. Low carbon limits sensitisation; used in tanks, piping, heat exchangers. |
| Type 304 | S30400 | P8 | Filler: ER308L or ER308H. General-purpose grade; food, chemical, and architectural applications. |
| Type 304H | S30409 | P8 | Filler: ER308H. High-carbon variant for elevated-temperature service; superheaters and ASME BPVC above 425 °C. |
| Type 301 | S30100 | P8 | Filler: ER308L. Higher strength austenitic; structural and automotive trim applications. |
| Type 302 | S30200 | P8 | Filler: ER308L. General-purpose grade; springs and light fabrication. |
| Type 305 | S30500 | P8 | Filler: ER308L. Low work-hardening rate; suited to deep drawing and spinning operations. |
| Type 321 | S32100 | P8 | Filler: ER347 preferred; ER308L acceptable. Ti-stabilised grade; ER347 better matches stabilisation intent. |
For dissimilar joints between 304 stainless steel and carbon steel, use ER309L instead of ER308L. ER309L contains more chromium and nickel, which makes up for the dilution effect during welding.
Recommended SAW Welding Parameters for ER308L/308H
These SAW welding settings for ER308L and ER308H help keep the arc stable, control heat and give consistent weld quality.
| Wire Diameter | Amperage (A) | Polarity | Shielding Gas / Flux |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 mm (cladding) | 300–450 A | DCEP | SAW flux (no external shielding gas); agglomerated neutral flux recommended for austenitic SS |
| 3.2 mm (butt joints) | 400–600 A | DCEP | SAW flux; neutral or slightly basic flux to control dilution and maintain austenitic microstructure |
Preheating is avoided because it keeps the metal in the 425-870°C sensitisation range for longer.
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Industries and Applications of ER308L/308H SAW Wire & Flux
ER308L is the most widely used stainless SAW filler worldwide. ER308H is mainly used in power and petrochemical plants for high‑temperature service.
- Food and Beverage Processing: Welding clean, hygienic stainless steel equipment where corrosion resistance and easy‑to‑clean welds are critical for food safety.
- Pharmaceutical and Biotech: Applied in welding high‑purity stainless systems with smooth, clean welds.
- Chemical Processing: Suitable for General stainless fabrication in mild environments, avoiding heavy chlorides or strongly reducing chemicals.
- Power Generation: Used for higher‑temperature service where welds must match base metal creep strength.
- Petrochemical and Refinery: Applied in Welding stainless systems for both hot and ambient service.
- Nuclear: Used in critical stainless systems needing tight control of chemistry, ferrite content, and full traceability.
- Pulp and Paper: Suitable for equipment exposed to process chemicals where moderate corrosion resistance and long‑term durability are necessary.
- Water Treatment and Desalination: Welding stainless equipment for freshwater and mildly corrosive environments.
Storage and Handling of ER308L/308H SAW Wire & Flux
Store flux in its original sealed containers at a humidity below 50%. After opening, use it within 8-24 hours or reseal it. If the flux absorbs moisture, rebake it at 250-350°C for 1-2 hours and discard any material that is clumped. Recycle only up to 50% unfused flux after sieving.
Store wire in clean, dry original packaging, away from oil, grease and dust. Handle it with clean gloves to avoid chloride contamination and carbon pickup. All wire is supplied sealed with lot identification and EN 10204-3.1 test certificates.
ER308L/308H SAW Wire Sizes & Packaging
ER308L and ER308H SAW wires are available in several diameters and packaging options. Make sure to specify the correct grade when placing an order.
| Form | Diameter | Packaging |
|---|---|---|
| SAW Wire | 2.0 mm (5/64″) | 12.5 kg, 25 kg coils |
| SAW Wire | 2.4 mm (3/32″) | 12.5 kg, 25 kg coils |
| SAW Wire | 3.2 mm (1/8″) | 25 kg coils; 100 kg, 250 kg drums |
| SAW Wire | 4.0 mm (5/32″) | 25 kg coils; 100 kg, 250 kg drums |
All packaging is labelled with lot ID and EN 10204-3.1 MTC. Stock is available either from inventory or on an indent (made-to-order) basis.
How to Order AWS Class ER308L/308H SAW Wire & Flux from Nicorex Alloys
To request a quotation for ER308L/308H SAW wire & flux from Nicorex Alloys, provide the following details:
- AWS Classification: ER308L (S30883) or ER308H (S30880)
- Product Form: SAW wire, flux, or wire + flux
- Wire Diameter: 2.0, 2.4, 3.2, or 4.0 mm
- Flux Type & Grade
- Packaging: coil or drum, weight
- Standard: AWS A5.9 / ASME SFA-5.9
- Base Metal: e.g., 304L tank seam, 304H butt weld
- Quantity: kg or packages
- Documentation: EN 10204-3.1 MTC, CoC, SDS
- Additional: ferrite per AWS A4.2, PMI, FN range
- Delivery: export or domestic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ER308L and ER308H?
ER308L has very low carbon for better corrosion resistance. ER308H has higher carbon for strength at high temperatures.
Can I use ER308L to weld 304H for high-temperature service?
No. ER308L does not meet the required carbon for high-temperature creep strength in 304H.
What ferrite number should I expect in an ER308L/308H SAW deposit?
Usually between 5 and 15 ferrite numbers. The exact value depends on weld chemistry, wire composition, and how the flux reacts during welding.
Why can’t I use ER308L for a 304-to-carbon steel dissimilar joint?
Dilution from carbon steel lowers chromium and nickel, risking brittle martensite. ER309L has higher chromium, and nickel to safely offset this dilution.
Does ER308L/308H SAW require preheat?
No preheat is used. Heating beforehand keeps steel longer in the sensitisation range, which promotes carbide precipitation, and reduces corrosion resistance.
What is the maximum interpass temperature for ER308L/308H SAW?
Keep interpass temperature at or below 150°C. This limits heat buildup, controls microstructure and maintains a stable ferrite content in the weld.
How does SAW Flux affect the final deposit chemistry of ER308L/308H?
Flux changes elements like silicon and manganese in the weld. Basic or neutral fluxes help maintain the desired ferrite range in the deposit.