Most people will use a 308L electrode or wire for joining 304 stainless steel (which is by far the most popular stainless base metal). You can easily join stainless steel with MIG, Stick or TIG welding. It comes down to speed, precision, and location for which process will work best for you.
- If you are working inside and need a perfect weld, then use TIG with 100% argon and a ER308L rod.
- If you need speed and a good looking weld, use MIG with a 98/2 shielding gas and a ER308L wire.
- If you are doing outdoor work, then use Stick with an E308L electrode.
