
E316L-16 Stainless Steel Welding Electrode
E316L-16 is a low-carbon covered electrode for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), classified under AWS A5.4. It is primarily used for welding 316L and compatible molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steels. Its chromium-nickel-molybdenum weld-metal composition is designed for suitable corrosive service environments. The low carbon limit helps reduce chromium carbide precipitation, while molybdenum contributes to resistance against pitting and crevice corrosion.
E316L-16 for Molybdenum-Bearing Stainless Steels
Typical Applications
- Chemical processing tanks, vessels and compatible piping
- Pharmaceutical and food-processing equipment, where material compatibility is confirmed
- Heat exchangers and industrial stainless steel assemblies
- Maintenance of 316L and compatible Cr-Ni-Mo stainless steel components
Classification and Technical Data
Item | Specification |
|---|---|
AWS classification | E316L-16 |
Standard | AWS A5.4 |
Welding process | SMAW / MMA |
Electrode type | Covered stainless steel electrode |
Main base material | 316L and compatible Cr-Ni-Mo stainless steels |
Welding current | Follow the manufacturer's instructions |
Welding positions | Confirm the specific manufacturer's data |
All-Weld-Metal Chemical Composition
Element | Common AWS classification limit (wt.%) |
|---|---|
C | ≤0.04 |
Mn | 0.50–2.50 |
Si | ≤1.00 |
Cr | 17.0–20.0 |
Ni | 11.0–14.0 |
Mo | 2.0–3.0 |
P | ≤0.04 |
S | ≤0.03 |
Cu | ≤0.75 |
Mechanical Properties
Selecting the Right Electrode
- E308L-16: Commonly selected for compatible 304L stainless steel applications.
- E316L-16: Selected for compatible 316L stainless steels where molybdenum-bearing weld metal is specified.
- E309L-16: Often considered for certain dissimilar-metal joints.



