ESAB OK 61.30 308L 3.2mm Stainless Steel Welding Electrode – E308L-17 MMA Rod 4.1kg

Premium extra-low carbon stainless steel electrode engineered for heavy fabrication and thick plate welding applications. The 3.2mm diameter delivers higher deposition rates and deeper penetration for joining 19% chromium 10% nickel-type steels in structural work, pressure vessels, and industrial equipment manufacturing

The 3.2mm size is specifically optimized for thicker materials and higher productivity. With recommended amperage of 90 to 140 amps in flat position, this electrode provides excellent deposition rates for filling larger joints and welding thicker section 304 and 308 stainless steels. The robust rutile coating ensures stable arc characteristics even at higher currents, minimizing spatter and reducing post-weld cleanup time

Larger diameter means more filler metal per pass, increasing welding speed on thick plate and reducing the number of passes required for complete joint penetration. The E308L-17 formulation with enhanced coating properties delivers smooth, finely rippled weld beads that require minimal grinding and finishing, improving overall productivity in production environments

Maximum carbon content of 0.04% minimizes chromium carbide formation, preventing intergranular corrosion and maintaining the corrosion resistance of the weld deposit. This is essential for heavy fabrications that may undergo post-weld heat treatment or operate in aggressive corrosive environments where weld integrity is critical

Versatile AC/DC Operation

Operates on both alternating current and direct current electrode positive (AC/DC+), providing maximum flexibility across welding machines and site conditions. The rutile coating formulation ensures reliable arc ignition and stability across the full amperage range, making it suitable for workshop and field applications alike

AWS Classification E308L-17 per A5.4. EN ISO 3581-A designation E 19 9 L R 1 2. Diameter 3.2mm. Length 350mm. Packaging 4.1kg tube. Electrode type rutile-coated extra-low carbon stainless steel. Welding positions all positions including flat, vertical, and overhead.

Typical values: Carbon 0.02%, Chromium 19.5%, Nickel 10.0%, Manganese 1.2%, Silicon 0.8%, Molybdenum 0.1%. Balanced chemistry ensures optimal ferrite content for crack resistance while matching 304L corrosion performance.

Tensile strength 580 MPa minimum. Yield strength 400 MPa. Elongation 40% minimum. These properties ensure robust, ductile weld deposits capable of withstanding mechanical stress and thermal cycling in heavy structural applications.

Flat position current range 90 to 140 amps. Vertical and overhead position current range 80 to 120 amps. AC or DC+ polarity recommended. Higher amperage settings within range provide increased deposition rates for thick plate welding.

Heavy fabrication of thick 304 and 308 stainless steel plate and structural sections. Pressure vessel construction and repair. Chemical processing equipment requiring thick section welds. Industrial tanks and reactors. Food processing equipment with heavy wall thickness. Power generation components. Shipbuilding and marine structures. General fabrication where higher deposition rates improve productivity

Ideal for AISI 301, 302, 304, 304L, 305, and 308 stainless steels in thicker sections. Suitable for welding stabilized grades 321 and 347 at service temperatures up to 350 degrees Celsius. For dissimilar joints between stainless and carbon steel, use ESAB 309L electrodes.

Store in original 4.1kg tube packaging at 15 to 25 degrees Celsius with relative humidity below 60%. Re-dry electrodes at 250 to 300 degrees Celsius for one hour if exposed to moisture. Maintain electrodes in heated quivers during welding operations to ensure optimal performance.

ESAB’s century-long expertise ensures consistent coating quality, reliable mechanical properties, and batch-to-batch uniformity. The OK 61.30 is manufactured under strict quality controls with full AWS and EN certification traceability. Professional fabricators worldwide rely on this electrode for critical stainless steel applications where weld quality, productivity, and corrosion resistance are paramount

Perfect for heavy fabrication shops, pressure vessel manufacturers, chemical processing contractors, and any professional operation requiring reliable 308L electrodes with higher deposition rates and proven performance on thick materials.