Home > Electrodes > AWS Class E308/308H-16 Electrodes
E308/308H-16 electrodes are a type of austenitic stainless-steel coated electrodes, specifically designed for welding 18-8 stainless steels like 301, 302, 304, and 308, among others. They provide weld metal that boasts a great balance of corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. These electrodes are perfect for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and can be used with both AC and DC current. They’re known for their smooth arc performance, easy slag removal, and consistent weld quality. You’ll find them commonly used in industries such as food processing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and general stainless-steel fabrication, where 18-8 stainless steels are the norm.
When it comes to the typical deposited weld metal from E308/308H-16, you can expect chromium (Cr) levels between 18.0% and 21.0%, and nickel (Ni) around 9.0% to 11.0%. Manganese (Mn), silicon (Si), and controlled minor elements like molybdenum (Mo) and copper (Cu) are included as deoxidizers. For the E308-16 variant, which is the low/normal-carbon option, carbon content is kept to a maximum of about 0.08%. This helps reduce carbide precipitation and ensures good corrosion resistance. On the other hand, the E308H-16 variant has a slightly higher carbon content (around 0.04% to 0.08%) to enhance tensile and creep strength for high-temperature applications. The weld deposits from these electrodes are known for their strong mechanical performance, with tensile strength typically exceeding 550 MPa (approximately 80 ksi), good elongation (often between 35% and 46%), and enough ductility to withstand stress without losing integrity.
| Classification | AWS A5.4, E308/308H-16 |
| Form | Welding Electrode, Welding Rods |
| Type Of Current | AC-DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive) |
| Welding Position | F, V, OH, H |
| Size | 2.0 mm, 2.50 mm, 3.15 mm, 4.00 mm, 5.0 mm |
| AC/DC+ | AC or DC (+) |
| JIS Specification | BS 2926 19.9 A R |
| Other Specification | DIN 8556 E19 9 R 23 A |
| AWS E308/308H-16 Coated Electrodes Application & uses |
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| C | Cr | Cu | Ferrite | Mn | Mo | Ni | Si |
| 0.04 % | 20 % | 0.10 % | 9 FN % | 1.80 % | 0.30 % | 10 % | 0.50 % |
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Light-coated electrodes are ideal for welding 18-8 austenitic stainless steel, offering smooth weld beads with minimal slag formation. Available in sizes ranging from 3/32″ to 5/32″ in diameter, they are suited for applications where easy slag removal is essential.
Heavy-coated electrodes provide enhanced slag control and stable arc characteristics, making them suitable for high-heat applications. These electrodes come in sizes from 3/32″ to 5/32″ in diameter and are ideal for out-of-position welding due to their robust coating.
Shielded arc electrodes offer high weld quality with reduced spatter, making them excellent for shielded arc welding. Available in sizes ranging from 3/32″ to 5/32″ in diameter, they provide superior arc stability and slag detachability, resulting in cleaner welds.
We guarantee quality products such as AWS Class E308/308H-16 Electrodes that consistently pass all tests, such as hardness testing, spectro analysis, PMI, flaring tests, macro and micro tests, pitting resistance, and IGC tests. We ensure all documentation requirements such as commercial invoices, packaging lists, Certificate of Origin, and Third-Party Inspection Certificates to ensure the finest quality and satisfaction of our valued customers.
These electrodes are generally used for welding austenitic stainless-steel components where you need reliable corrosion resistance, ductility, and ease of fabrication. You’ll often see them in the fabrication of tanks, food-processing equipment, kitchen and sanitary installations, components for chemical and pharmaceutical plants, piping, and structural steelwork.







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