Atlantic CHG-316L ER316L Tig Wire 1.6mm x 1000 - 5 kg Box

When the job calls for better corrosion resistance than standard 308L can offer, the Atlantic CHG-316L is what you reach for. The ER316L is the preferred filler for marine environments, chemical processing, and anywhere chlorides or acids are in the picture. It's the same smooth TIG experience you expect, with the added protection of molybdenum in the alloy.

The low-carbon "L" grade keeps the heat-affected zone clean and corrosion-resistant, making it a solid choice for critical stainless applications.

The Basics

• Brand: Atlantic | Model: CHG-316L
• AWS Classification: ER316L
• Diameter: 1.6mm | Length: 1000mm
• Net Weight: 5 kg per box
• Process: TIG (GTAW)
• Base Metal: 316, 316L stainless steel
• Contains molybdenum for superior corrosion resistance
• Low carbon for reduced carbide precipitation

Common Applications

• Marine and offshore fabrication
• Chemical and petrochemical processing equipment
• Pharmaceutical and food-grade tanks
• Pulp and paper industry
• Any environment exposed to chlorides or acids

Frequently Asked Questions — ER316L TIG Welding Wire

1. What is the difference between ER316L and ER308L TIG wire?

The key difference is molybdenum content. ER316L contains 2–3% molybdenum, which significantly improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion — especially in chloride-rich environments like marine, coastal, and chemical processing settings. ER308L is the standard choice for general 304/304L stainless work, while ER316L is specified when the base metal is 316 or 316L stainless, or when the service environment demands superior corrosion resistance.

2. What base metals can I weld with ER316L?

ER316L is primarily used to weld 316 and 316L stainless steel base metals. It can also be used on 316Ti and similar molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless grades. In some cases it is used as an over-match filler on 304/304L when the application requires extra corrosion protection, though this is application-specific. Always verify with your welding engineer or project specification.

3. What shielding gas should I use with ER316L for TIG welding?

100% Argon (Ar) is the standard shielding gas for TIG welding stainless steel with ER316L. It produces a clean, stable arc and a bright, oxide-free weld bead. For back-purging (protecting the root side of the weld), 100% Argon or a nitrogen/hydrogen forming gas is commonly used to prevent sugaring on the inside of the joint. Avoid CO₂-containing mixes for TIG — those are for MIG/GMAW processes.

4. What does the "L" in ER316L mean, and why does it matter?

The "L" stands for Low Carbon — the carbon content is held to a maximum of 0.03%. This is critical because high carbon in stainless welds can cause carbide precipitation (sensitization) in the heat-affected zone, which depletes chromium at grain boundaries and creates pathways for corrosion. The low-carbon grade eliminates this risk without requiring post-weld heat treatment, making it the preferred choice for most structural and process piping applications.

5. What amperage and tungsten should I use for TIG welding with 1.6mm ER316L wire?

For 1.6mm (1/16") ER316L filler wire, typical TIG parameters depend on material thickness. As a general starting point: use a 2.4mm (3/32") pure or lanthanated tungsten electrode, DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative) polarity, and amperage in the 60–120A range for thin to medium gauge stainless (16 ga to 3/16"). Always dial in your machine on scrap material first. Proper fit-up, joint prep, and travel speed are just as important as amperage settings.

6. Can ER316L be used for MIG (GMAW) welding?

No — this product is a cut-length TIG (GTAW) filler rod, not a MIG spool. TIG rods are straight, cut to length (1000mm / ~39"), and are not compatible with wire-feed MIG equipment. If you need ER316L for MIG welding, you would need a spooled ER316L MIG wire in the appropriate diameter for your wire feeder. Ask us about MIG wire availability.

7. How should I store ER316L TIG rods to keep them in good condition?

Store TIG rods in a clean, dry environment away from moisture, oils, and contaminants. Keep them in the original tube or a sealed rod holder when not in use. Contaminated filler wire is one of the most common causes of porosity and weld defects in TIG welding. Never handle rods with bare, oily hands — use clean gloves or handle only the ends. If rods have been exposed to moisture, they can be dried in a low-temperature oven (around 250°F / 120°C) for 1–2 hours before use.

8. Is ER316L suitable for food-grade, pharmaceutical, or sanitary applications?

Yes — ER316L is widely specified for food processing equipment, pharmaceutical tanks, dairy systems, and other sanitary applications. The 316L alloy's molybdenum content and low carbon make it highly resistant to the acids and cleaning chemicals used in these industries. Proper back-purging during welding is especially important in sanitary applications to achieve a smooth, crevice-free root bead that meets hygienic standards.

9. How many rods are in a 5 kg box, and how far will it go?

At 1.6mm diameter and 1000mm length, a 5 kg box contains approximately 200–220 individual rods (exact count varies slightly by manufacturer). Deposition rate and rod consumption depend heavily on joint type, material thickness, and welder technique. As a rough guide, experienced TIG welders typically consume 0.5–1.5 kg of filler per hour of arc-on time on stainless. A 5 kg box is well-suited for production runs, fabrication shops, or contractors with ongoing stainless work.

10. Is this wire available for same-day pickup, and do you ship?

Yes — this Atlantic CHG-316L ER316L TIG wire is in stock and available for same-day pickup at our AC Construction Depot location in Pineville, NC (serving the greater Charlotte area). We do ship — contact us at 704-835-1086 for shipping rates and lead times, especially for bulk orders. We're contractor-friendly and happy to accommodate job-site timelines.

⚠️ Safety

Always weld in a well-ventilated area and use proper shielding gas (typically 100% Argon for TIG). Wear appropriate eye protection, gloves, and body protection. Stainless fumes can be hazardous — keep your head out of the fume plume and follow your employer's safety guidelines.

Available for same-day pickup at AC Construction Depot in Pineville, NC. Questions? Call us at 704-835-1086.