sa 240 304H Welding Wire Recommended Types and Specification

SA 240 GR 304H Welding Wire: Recommended Types and Specifications

At Gangsteel, a leading manufacturer and exporter of stainless steel products, we supply high-quality SA 240 GR 304H stainless steel plates compliant with ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 standards. SA 240 GR 304H welding wire is essential for joining this high-carbon austenitic grade (UNS S30409, AISI 304H, EN 1.4948), optimized for high-temperature strength up to 1500°F (815°C). This guide details recommended types and specifications for SA 240 GR 304H welding wire, including filler materials, processes, and precautions for applications like boilers and heat exchangers. For inquiries, contact us at admin@gangsteel.com or explore our ASME SA240 Stainless sheet offerings.

Recommended Types of Welding Wire for SA 240 GR 304H

For SA 240 GR 304H welding wire, the filler material must match the base metal's high-carbon content to ensure strength at elevated temperatures and minimize sensitization risks. The most recommended types are:

• ER308H: A high-carbon (0.04-0.08% C) austenitic filler wire for TIG (GTAW) and MIG (GMAW) welding, matching 304H's composition for creep resistance.
• ER308: Standard austenitic filler wire for general welding, but ER308H is preferred for high-temperature applications to avoid carbon dilution.
• E308H-16: Covered electrode for SMAW (stick welding), with high-carbon flux for field repairs.

These fillers maintain the non-magnetic properties (SA 240 304 non magnetic) and corrosion resistance of SA 240 GR 304H. See sa240 gr 304h for base material.

Specifications of SA 240 GR 304H Welding Wire

The specifications for SA 240 GR 304H welding wire are based on AWS A5.9 (for filler metals) and ASME Section IX (welding qualifications). Key details:

• Carbon Matching: Fillers with 0.04-0.08% C match 304H’s carbon (0.04-0.10%) to prevent dilution and maintain high-temperature strength.
• Chromium/Nickel: 18-21% Cr and 9-11% Ni ensure corrosion resistance and austenitic structure.
• Welding Process Compatibility: GTAW for precision; GMAW for productivity; SMAW for field repairs.

For low-carbon alternatives, see sa240 gr 304l.

Welding Processes for SA 240 GR 304H

• GTAW (TIG): Preferred for root passes and thin plates; low heat input minimizes carbide precipitation.
• GMAW (MIG): Efficient for thicker sections; use short-circuit transfer to control heat.
• SMAW (Stick): Suitable for field repairs; use low-hydrogen electrodes to avoid cracking.

See sa240 gr 304h for base material.

Precautions and Best Practices

• Heat Input: Keep <2.0 kJ/mm to avoid sensitization (carbide precipitation in 797°F-1580°F/425°C-860°C range).
• Interpass Temperature: ≤300°F (149°C) to prevent carbide formation.
• Post-Weld Annealing: Recommended at 1870-2050°F (1020-1120°C) with rapid cooling to restore corrosion resistance.
• Shielding Gas: Pure argon or Ar-He mix to protect against oxidation.
• Filler Matching: Use 308H to maintain carbon content for creep strength.

For chloride-heavy environments, see sa240 gr 316l.

Applications of SA 240 GR 304H Welding

Welded SA 240 GR 304H stainless steel is used in:

• Boilers and pressure vessels (steam drums).
• Heat exchangers (tubes, shells).
• Power generation (superheaters).
• High-temperature piping and fittings.

For stabilized grades, see sa240 gr 321.

Pricing and Availability

As of October 19, 2025, SA240 304H stainless steel plate prices (2B finish, 3-6mm) range from $1.60-$3.50/kg. Gangsteel offers $1.60/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton) for sa240 gr 304h. Contact admin@gangsteel.com or visit astm a 240 stainless plate.

FAQ on SA 240 GR 304H Welding Wire

What is the recommended welding wire for SA 240 GR 304H?

ER308H is the primary recommendation for TIG/MIG, matching the high-carbon content for creep resistance.

What are the specifications of SA 240 GR 304H welding wire?

AWS A5.9 ER308H with 0.04-0.08% C, 19.5-21.5% Cr, 9.0-11.0% Ni; diameters 0.8-4.0 mm.

Why is ER308H preferred for SA 240 GR 304H welding?

It matches the carbon level (0.04-0.08%) to maintain high-temperature strength and prevent dilution.

What precautions are needed when welding SA 240 GR 304H with recommended wire?

Use low heat input (<2.0 kJ/mm), interpass ≤300°F, and post-weld annealing to avoid sensitization.

How does SA 240 GR 304H welding compare to 304L?

304H needs annealing due to higher carbon (0.04-0.10%), while 304L (≤0.03%) welds with minimal risk. See sa240 gr 304l.