Technical Resources
Weldability Charts
Comprehensive welding guidelines, filler metal recommendations, and procedure specifications for all material grades.
Select Material Family:
Austenitic Stainless Steel
304304L316316L321347
Weldability Rating
Excellent
Preheating
Not required (except for very thick sections > 50mm)
Interpass Temp
175°C maximum
Shielding Gas
Argon, Ar+2%CO2, or Ar+2%O2 for GTAW/GMAW
Heat Input
1.0-2.5 kJ/mm recommended
Filler Metal Selection Guide
Recommended filler metals for each base material
| Base Metal | Filler Metal (GTAW/GMAW / SMAW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 304 | ER308L / E308L-16 | L grade filler for corrosion resistance |
| 304L | ER308L / E308L-16 | Matching low carbon filler |
| 316 | ER316L / E316L-16 | L grade for improved corrosion resistance |
| 316L | ER316L / E316L-16 | Matching low carbon filler |
| 321 | ER347 / E347-16 | Nb-stabilized filler (Ti not transferable) |
| 347 | ER347 / E347-16 | Matching Nb-stabilized filler |
Post-Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT)
Generally not required (recommended for service > 425°C or corrosive environments)
Special Considerations
- Avoid sensitization: use L grades or stabilized grades for corrosive service
- Control ferrite content: 3-10 FN in weld metal prevents hot cracking
- Minimize dilution to prevent formation of brittle phases
- Full penetration welds required for pressure service