Welding W/ 309 And 316

[Spud]

I am welding a 304 plate to a 316 tank with 316L-15 rods. I cannot seem to get a good uniform bead. I am running at 90-95 amps, with DCEP (Reverse Polarity). I am certified with 7018's (1" unlimited), in relation to 7018, what would my electrode angle be and would it be a lead or trailing angle? I am primarily welding vertical up. Also I am welding steel T-irons to the 304 plates with 309 rods. I am in desperate need of advice in using 309's. All materials are about 1/4" in thickness. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Mike Sherman]

What size electrode are you using? 90 amps is about right for a 3/32". I run stainless electrodes just about exactly like low hydrogen. Sometimes they can be a little more fluid, possibly use a little more angle. Progression should always be up and not downhill, just like low hydrogen.

[cope]

Mike, since we are on the subject, how does moisture affect 308L rods? I welded a piece of 4X4X1/8" stainless to a stainless pipe flange cover and the weld were not consistent; good for an inch or so and then not so good. Once they are damp, are they toast? These have been in a cabinet with a couple of 60 watt bulbs.

[Mike Sherman]

All SMAW stainless electrodes are of the low hydrogen variety and should be stored as such. In an oven at 250 degrees.

[cope]

Mike, thanks. That explains the crappy weld appearance. For once I can say its not my fault!

[Spud]

309/316 Stainless

I'm using 1/8" rods (both the 309 & 316). Maybe thats the problem, not enough heat. Also, there hasn't been a rod oven on the job until now. I have found, through a little research, that by running a stringer on the T-iron with the 309 first, and then welding the 304 to the T-iron with another pass, I will achieve a better weld. I'm going to try it anyway. Any experience with this technique? Thanks for your help.

[Mike Sherman]

Absolutely Spud, you have inadvertantly hit upon the proper technique for welding dissimilar steels together with 309, sorry I didn't mention it myself.

[Spud]

Thanks Mike. Now I just have to get the welds to look a bit better. Just about the time I get good with it, the job will be done, and I wont have to weld stainless again for years. Thanks again.

[Stu Bass]

spud

Spud: I know how hard your working at it on aconstruction job You are probably wearing out a Metabo. Try this stain. welds about the same heat as same size 5p. Count to 4 in the corners and go a little slower across the middle than you would with lo-high. Let me know if this helps. If you are welding single stringers uphill slighty oscillate. Don't come out of the puddle tho or you will get cold laps. the same technic on horiz. Stu