The correct TIG rod depends on the material being welded. As a quick reference: 308L for 304 stainless steel, 316L for 316 stainless steel, 309L for joining stainless steel to mild steel, and ER70S-2 for mild steel. Aluminium, cast iron, titanium, copper and nickel alloys each require their own dedicated filler metals. Selecting the correct rod ensures compatible mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and weld quality.
What TIG rod should I use?
The correct TIG rod depends on the material being welded. 308L is typically used for 304 stainless steel, 316L for 316 stainless steel, 309L for welding stainless to mild steel, and ER70S-2 for mild steel. Selecting the correct filler rod ensures compatible mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and weld quality.
Stainless steel TIG rods
What is the best TIG rod for stainless steel?
The best TIG rod depends on the stainless steel grade. 308L is recommended for 304 stainless steel, while 316L is used for 316 stainless steel. 309L is suitable for welding dissimilar metals. Using the correct filler rod helps maintain corrosion resistance and ensures the finished weld performs as intended.
What is the difference between 308L and 309L TIG rods?
308L TIG rods are designed for welding 304 and 304L stainless steel. 309L TIG rods contain higher chromium and nickel levels and are primarily used for joining stainless steel to mild steel or welding dissimilar metals. Using the correct filler rod improves weld integrity and reduces the risk of cracking or corrosion.
What is the difference between 308L and 316L TIG rods?
308L TIG rods are intended for welding 304 stainless steel. 316L TIG rods contain molybdenum, providing improved corrosion resistance in marine, food processing and chemical environments. Always match the filler rod to the parent material unless your welding procedure specifies an alternative.
What is the difference between 309L and 316L TIG rods?
309L is primarily used for dissimilar metal welding, such as joining stainless steel to mild steel. 316L is used for welding 316 stainless steel where corrosion resistance is essential. The correct choice depends on the materials being joined and the service environment.
For more on welding stainless steel itself — including purging and hygienic applications — see our TIG welding stainless steel guide.
What is the best TIG rod for mild steel?
ER70S-2 is one of the most widely used TIG rods for mild steel. It offers excellent weld quality, good mechanical properties and performs well on clean steel. It is commonly used in fabrication, motorsport, pipework and precision engineering.
What is the best TIG rod for aluminium?
ER4043 is suitable for general aluminium fabrication because it offers excellent weldability and crack resistance. ER5356 is preferred where higher strength or improved corrosion resistance is required. The correct filler rod depends on the aluminium alloy and application. For technique, see our guide to TIG welding aluminium and thin sheet.
What is the best TIG rod for cast iron?
Nickel-based filler rods are commonly recommended for cast iron because they reduce cracking and improve machinability. The correct rod depends on whether the repair requires machining or maximum strength. Preheating and controlled cooling are also important when welding cast iron.
What is the best TIG rod for titanium?
Titanium should be welded using matching titanium filler rods that are compatible with the parent material. Excellent shielding is essential because titanium reacts rapidly with oxygen when heated, and additional shielding on the rear of the weld is often required to prevent contamination.
What is the best TIG rod for copper?
Copper alloys require specialist filler rods selected according to the alloy being welded. Silicon bronze and copper-based filler metals are commonly used depending on the application. Good heat control is essential because copper conducts heat extremely efficiently.
What is the best TIG rod for nickel alloys?
Nickel alloy filler rods should match the parent material wherever possible. Common filler metals include Inconel and other nickel-based consumables designed for high-temperature and corrosion-resistant applications. Correct filler selection helps maintain mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
How should TIG filler rods be stored?
Store TIG rods in a clean, dry environment to prevent contamination and corrosion. Keep different alloys separated and clearly labelled to avoid mixing filler metals. Clean filler rods produce cleaner welds and reduce the risk of weld defects.
Get the right rod, first time
Matching filler metal to parent material is one of the most important decisions in TIG welding — get it wrong and you risk cracking, corrosion or a weld that fails in service. Weldability SIF supplies TIG filler rods classified to recognised standards across stainless, mild steel, aluminium and specialist alloys, and our technical team can recommend the correct rod for your application. Contact us or browse our welding consumables range.