AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire

| AWS A 5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Description

1）Specific Alloy Composition (2.25% Cr - 1% Mo): The "B3" in the classification precisely dictates the chemical composition of the wire, specifically indicating a nominal content of 2.25% Chromium and 1% Molybdenum. Chromium provides oxidation and corrosion resistance, while Molybdenum significantly enhances the high-temperature strength and creep resistance of the weld metal. This controlled chemistry ensures consistent performance for critical applications.The AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 is a highly specialized solid wire electrode designed for Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) of 2.25% Chromium (Cr) - 1% Molybdenum (Mo) low-alloy steels. This classification is part of the AWS A5.28 specification for low-alloy steel filler metals and is distinct because its precise chemical composition is defined, not left to a "G" classification. It is specifically formulated to provide creep resistance at elevated temperatures, making it a critical material in industries dealing with high-temperature, high-pressure applications.

2）High Tensile Strength: The "90" in ER90S-B3 indicates that the deposited weld metal achieves a minimum tensile strength of 90,000 pounds per square inch (psi), approximately 620 Megapascals (MPa). This high strength is crucial for joining components that will operate under significant stress, especially at elevated temperatures where conventional steels would lose their load-bearing capacity.

3）Creep Resistance and Elevated Temperature Service: The primary characteristic of ER90S-B3 is its exceptional creep resistance and suitability for prolonged elevated temperature service, often up to 600°C (1112°F). The Cr-Mo alloying ensures that the weld metal maintains its strength and structural integrity over long periods at high temperatures, resisting plastic deformation under constant stress. This property is vital for the longevity of power generation and petrochemical equipment.

4）Applications in Power and Petrochemical Industries: This wire is predominantly used in the power generation industry (e.g., thermal power plants), petrochemical refineries, and other sectors involved with high-temperature, high-pressure equipment. Specific applications include the welding of boilers, superheaters, steam piping, pressure vessels, turbine casings, and other components made from 2.25%Cr-1%Mo steels (such as ASTM A335 Grade P22, A387 Grade 22, etc.).

5）Critical Welding Procedure Control: Welding with ER90S-B3 requires strict adherence to welding procedures. This typically includes maintaining specific preheat and interpass temperatures (often 200-350°C or 350-650°F) to prevent hydrogen-induced cracking and ensure proper microstructure formation. Furthermore, post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) at specific temperatures (e.g., 680-730°C for 1 hour or more) is almost always mandatory to relieve residual stresses, temper the weld, and achieve optimal mechanical properties, including required impact toughness.

6）Arc Characteristics and Quality: ER90S-B3 wires are manufactured to provide stable arc characteristics, consistent wire feeding, and a smooth, clean weld bead. When used with appropriate shielding gases (typically Argon/CO2 mixtures or 100% CO2 for specific applications), they produce high-quality, radiographically sound welds with low levels of impurities like phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S), which helps minimize temper embrittlement and ensures reliable long-term performance.

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Down Load

AWS A5.28 -ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire.pdf

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Data Sheet

Standard： AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3

Chemical Composition %

C

Mn

Si

P

S

Cr

Ni

Cu

Mo

----

Grade ER90S-B3

0.07 ~ 0.12

0.40 ~ 0.70

0.40 ~ 0.70

≤0.025

≤0.025

2.3 ~ 2.7

≤0.20

≤0.35

0.9 ~ 1.2

----

Type

Spool  ( MIG )

Tube  ( TIG )

Specification  ( MM )

0.8、0.9、1.0、1.2、1.6、2.0

1.6、2.0、2.4、3.2、4.0、5.0

Package

S100 / 1kg                     S200 / 5kg S270,S300 / 15kg-20kg

5kg / box    10kg / box    length :1000MM

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength Mpa

Yield Strength Mpa

Elongation A  (%)

Impact Value KV2 (J)   -30℃

≥ 620

≥ 540

≥ 17

------

Diameter（MM）

0.8

1.0

1.2

1.6

MIG Welding

Welding Current ( A )

50 – 100

50 – 220

80 – 350

170 – 550

CO2Gas-flow ( L/min )

15

15 – 20

15 – 25

20 – 25

AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Parameters
Diameter		Process		Volt		Amps		Shielding GAS		Travel Speed       (ipm)
in	mm
0.023	0.6	GMAW		14-19		30-85		Short Circuiting 98%Argon + 2%Oxygen		10-15
0.03	0.8	GMAW		15-20		40-130		Spray Transfer 98%Argon + 2%Oxygen		12-24
0.035	0.9	GMAW		23-26		160-300		Spray Transfer 98%Argon + 2%Oxygen		11-22
0.039	1.0	GMAW		28-31		200-320		Spray Transfer 98%Argon + 2%Oxygen		15-20
1/25.4”
0.045	1.2	GMAW		23-29		170-375		Spray Transfer 98%Argon + 2%Oxygen		12-21
3/64”
1/16”	1.6	GMAW		25-31		275-475		Spray Transfer 98%Argon + 2%Oxygen		9-19
Diameter		Process		Volt		Amps		GAS		Travel Speed (ipm)
in	mm
0.035	0.9	GTAW		12-15		60-100		100%Argon		N / A
0.045	1.2	GTAW		13-16		70-120		100%Argon		N / A
1/16”	1.6	GTAW		adjust to current		100-160		100%Argon		N / A
3/32”	2.4	GTAW		adjust to current		120-250		100%Argon		N / A
1/8”	3.2	GTAW		adjust to current		150-300		100%Argon		N / A
Weight	0.5kg	1kg	2kg		5kg	15kg		20kg
	1 lb	2 lb	4 lb		11 lb	33 lb		44 lb

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Workshop Show

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Production Video

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Application

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Certificate

| AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 Mig Welding Wire Comment & FAQ

Question 1: What is the fundamental difference between AWS A5.18 and AWS A5.28 classifications?

The fundamental difference lies in the base metal types they are designed to weld.
AWS A5.18 covers **mild steel** and low-carbon steel filler metals, generally for tensile strengths up to 70,000 psi.
AWS A5.28, on the other hand, specifically covers filler metals for **low-alloy steels**, designed for higher strength applications, ranging from 80,000 psi tensile strength and above.
So, A5.18 is for general mild steel, while A5.28 is for more specialized, higher-strength steel welding.

Question 2: How does AWS A5.18 ER70S-3 differ from ER70S-6 in terms of deoxidation?

AWS A5.18 ER70S-3 has lower levels of deoxidizers, specifically silicon (Si) and manganese (Mn), compared to ER70S-6.
This means ER70S-3 requires very clean base metals for optimal results and is less tolerant of rust, mill scale, or other surface contaminants.
ER70S-6, with its higher deoxidizer content, is more forgiving on moderately contaminated surfaces, leading to a cleaner **weld puddle** and reduced porosity.
Therefore, ER70S-6 offers better **contamination tolerance**.

Question 3: When would I choose AWS A5.18 ER70S-G over ER70S-6 for a mild steel application?

You'd choose AWS A5.18 ER70S-G when your application has very specific performance requirements that a standard ER70S-6 might not perfectly meet.
The "G" classification allows manufacturers to tailor the wire's exact chemistry for optimized characteristics, such as enhanced arc stability for automated systems, ultra-low spatter for specific robotic setups, or perhaps unique wetting characteristics for specialized joint designs.
It's for when you need a **customized welding solution** for mild steel.

Question 4: What specific advantage does AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 (SG2, SG3) offer in terms of mechanical properties?

AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 (and its European equivalents SG2, SG3) consistently delivers excellent **impact toughness**, even at sub-zero temperatures (e.g., down to -30°C or -40°C).
This is crucial for structural components that will be exposed to cold environments or dynamic loading, where the weld must maintain ductility and resist brittle fracture.
Its robust mechanical properties make it a go-to for general **steel fabrication** requiring reliability.

Question 5: How do the "G" classifications (ER70S-G, ER80S-G, ER90S-G, ER100S-G) differ across the AWS A5.18 and A5.28 standards?

While all "G" classifications offer manufacturers flexibility in chemical composition, their primary difference is the minimum tensile strength of the deposited weld metal.
ER70S-G targets 70 ksi for mild steel.
ER80S-G aims for 80 ksi for low-alloy steels.
ER90S-G targets 90 ksi, and ER100S-G targets 100 ksi, also for low-alloy steels.
Each step up in strength typically involves a more complex combination of alloying elements, allowing for higher **strength-to-weight ratios** in the final structure.
The "G" provides customization within that strength bracket.

Question 6: Why is AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 used for high-temperature applications?

AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 is specifically formulated with 2.25% Chromium (Cr) and 1% Molybdenum (Mo), which are critical alloying elements for enhancing **creep resistance** and high-temperature strength.
These elements allow the weld metal to maintain its structural integrity and resist deformation under prolonged stress at elevated temperatures (e.g., up to 600°C).
This makes it ideal for power generation, petrochemical, and other industries dealing with **high-temperature piping** and pressure vessels.

Question 7: What defines AWS A5.28 ER80S-G, and where does it fit between ER70S-G and ER90S-G?

AWS A5.28 ER80S-G is a general classification for low-alloy MIG welding wire that delivers a minimum tensile strength of 80,000 psi.
It serves as an intermediate strength option between the general mild steel ER70S-G and the higher-strength ER90S-G.
Manufacturers can formulate ER80S-G with specific alloys to achieve properties needed for medium-strength **structural steels** or specific tempering requirements, offering a tailored solution where a 70 ksi wire isn't strong enough but a 90 ksi isn't necessary.

Question 8: When would AWS A5.28 ER100S-G be the preferred choice over ER90S-G?

ER100S-G would be the preferred choice when the application demands the absolute highest strength and toughness available in solid MIG wires.
If your base material is an ultra-high-strength steel (e.g., HY-100) or if the welded component will experience extreme loading conditions, dynamic stresses, or very low operating temperatures, the superior 100,000 psi tensile strength and enhanced impact properties of ER100S-G become essential.
It's for the most **critical structural elements**.

Question 9: Can AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 (SG2, SG3) be used with 100% CO2 shielding gas, and what are the effects?

Yes, AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 (SG2, SG3) is very commonly used with 100% CO2 shielding gas.
Using CO2 typically results in deeper penetration and a hotter arc, which can be advantageous for welding thicker materials or for achieving higher deposition rates.
However, it also generally leads to more spatter compared to argon/CO2 mixes.
Despite this, its excellent deoxidation capabilities ensure sound **CO2 welding** performance, making it a cost-effective choice for many general fabrication tasks.

Question 10: What role does Post-Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) play when using AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3?

PWHT is almost always critical when welding with AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3.
It is performed to temper the martensitic microstructure that can form in the weld metal, relieving residual stresses, improving ductility, and optimizing the final **creep resistance** and toughness.
Without proper PWHT, the weld joint may be brittle and susceptible to cracking, especially in high-temperature service.
This heat treatment is crucial for meeting the long-term performance requirements of **power plant components** and **petrochemical equipment**.

Question 11: How do ER70S-3 and ER70S-6 compare in terms of usability for semi-automated welding?

Both ER70S-3 and ER70S-6 can be used for semi-automated welding.
However, ER70S-6 generally offers better all-around usability due to its higher deoxidizer content.
This results in a more stable arc, less spatter, and better tolerance for varying surface conditions, which translates to smoother operation and less downtime for the welder in a semi-automated setup.
ER70S-6 typically provides superior **weld consistency** for manual and semi-automated **MIG welding**.

Question 12: What specific considerations are there for hydrogen control when using AWS A5.28 ER100S-G?

Hydrogen control is paramount when welding with AWS A5.28 ER100S-G due to the susceptibility of ultra-high-strength steels to hydrogen-induced cracking.
This involves using extremely dry wire from sealed packaging, ensuring the shielding gas is free of moisture, utilizing sufficient preheat and maintaining interpass temperatures, and often performing **post-weld hydrogen bake-outs** or PWHT.
Rigorous control of all potential hydrogen sources is critical for achieving defect-free **high-strength welds**.

Question 13: Can AWS A5.18 ER70S-G be formulated to provide improved low-temperature impact toughness?

While ER70S-G is a general classification, manufacturers can indeed formulate it with specific alloying additions, such as increased manganese or trace elements, to enhance **low-temperature impact toughness** beyond what a standard ER70S-6 might achieve.
This customization allows it to meet specific project requirements where a mild steel weld needs improved performance in cold environments, without stepping up to a low-alloy classification.
It offers a tailored solution for **cold weather welding**.

Question 14: How does the higher alloy content in AWS A5.28 wires (ER80S-G, ER90S-G, ER100S-G, ER90S-B3) affect fume generation compared to AWS A5.18 wires?

The higher alloy content in AWS A5.28 wires generally means that the welding fumes will contain a broader range of metallic oxides (e.g., Chromium, Molybdenum, Nickel oxides) in addition to iron oxides.
These can be more hazardous, requiring even more robust **fume extraction systems** and personal protective equipment (PPE) than when welding with AWS A5.18 mild steel wires.
Proper ventilation is always critical, but especially so with these specialized alloys for **welder safety**.

Question 15: Is AWS A5.28 ER90S-G suitable for applications requiring improved atmospheric corrosion resistance, like weathering steels?

Yes, certain formulations of AWS A5.28 ER90S-G can be specifically designed for welding weathering steels, such as Cor-ten.
Manufacturers can add small amounts of copper, nickel, or chromium to the wire's composition under the "G" classification to promote the formation of a stable, protective rust layer on the weld, matching the corrosion resistance of the base material.
This ensures the longevity of **exposed steel structures**.

Question 16: What makes AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 (SG2, SG3) a versatile choice for general fabrication?

AWS A5.18 ER70S-6 (SG2, SG3) is highly versatile due to its excellent all-position welding capabilities, superior arc stability, and good tolerance for surface impurities.
It produces clean welds with good mechanical properties and a smooth bead appearance, suitable for a wide range of applications from light gauge sheet metal to heavy structural steel.
Its reliability makes it a staple for most **general fabrication shops**.

Question 17: How does the price point typically compare between ER70S-G, ER80S-G, ER90S-G, and ER100S-G?

Generally, the price point increases with the strength and complexity of the wire's alloy content.
ER70S-G, being a modified mild steel, is typically the most economical.
As you move to ER80S-G, ER90S-G, and especially ER100S-G, the cost per pound increases due to the more expensive alloying elements (Ni, Cr, Mo, etc.) and the tighter manufacturing controls required for these **specialized welding wires**.
The value comes from their enhanced performance for critical applications.

Question 18: Can AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 be used for welding other low-alloy steels besides 2.25Cr-1Mo?

While ER90S-B3 is specifically designed for 2.25%Cr-1%Mo steels, it might occasionally be used on other low-alloy steels if a compatible strength and similar alloy content are required, and if proper metallurgical evaluation and **welding procedure qualification** confirm its suitability.
However, its primary design is for the specific creep-resistant properties of Cr-Mo steels, and deviating from this requires careful consideration to avoid **weld defects** or suboptimal performance.

Question 19: Why is wire feeding consistency even more critical for high-strength wires like ER90S-G and ER100S-G?

Wire feeding consistency is paramount for high-strength wires because the **welding parameters** are often very precise and unforgiving.
Any irregularities in wire feeding (e.g., slippage, bird-nesting, erratic speed) can immediately lead to arc instability, spatter, lack of fusion, or other defects that compromise the integrity of these critical, high-stress welds.
Reliable wire feeding is essential for maintaining strict **quality control** in advanced applications.

Question 20: How do the European SG2 and SG3 designations relate to ER70S-6 for AWS A5.18 wires?

SG2 (under EN ISO 14341-A as G3Si1) is generally considered the direct European equivalent of AWS A5.18 ER70S-6.
SG3 (under EN ISO 14341-A as G4Si1) is a slightly higher silicon version, offering even stronger deoxidation and improved arc characteristics, often considered a premium or enhanced version of ER70S-6.
Both are widely interchangeable with ER70S-6 for general **mild steel welding** applications, offering similar performance and mechanical properties across different standards.

Question 21: When would the higher deoxidizer content of SG3 (G4Si1) be particularly beneficial compared to SG2 (G3Si1) or ER70S-6?

The higher deoxidizer content of SG3 (G4Si1) is particularly beneficial when welding on base metals with heavier mill scale, significant rust, or certain types of primers.
It provides an extra margin of safety against porosity and other defects that can arise from impurities.
Additionally, some welders find it offers an even smoother arc and less spatter, which can be advantageous in high-productivity or **robotic welding** environments where minimizing cleanup is crucial.

Question 22: Are there specific safety considerations that become more prominent when using AWS A5.28 low-alloy wires (ER80S-G to ER100S-G, ER90S-B3) compared to AWS A5.18 wires?

Yes, due to the presence of various alloying elements (Cr, Mo, Ni, V), the welding fumes generated by AWS A5.28 wires can be more hazardous than those from AWS A5.18 mild steel wires.
This necessitates even stricter adherence to **fume control measures**, including local exhaust ventilation, adequate general ventilation, and potentially air-fed respirators.
Understanding the specific alloy content from the **Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)** for each wire is critical for **welder health and safety**.

Question 23: How does the "G" classification in AWS A5.28 wires (ER80S-G, ER90S-G, ER100S-G) affect their use in applications requiring specific certifications (e.g., ABS, DNV)?

While the "G" provides flexibility in composition, manufacturers will still seek specific certifications from classification societies (like ABS, DNV, Lloyd's Register) for their ERxxS-G products.
These approvals confirm that the specific manufacturer's formulation meets the stringent mechanical property and quality requirements for various industries (e.g., shipbuilding, offshore).
Always verify that the specific **welding wire brand** and type you choose carry the necessary certifications for your project's **regulatory compliance**.

Question 24: What are the primary differences in welding parameters (voltage, wire feed speed) when moving from ER70S-6 to ER90S-G or ER100S-G?

When moving from ER70S-6 to higher-strength wires like ER90S-G or ER100S-G, you generally need to adjust parameters to accommodate the different alloy content and desired mechanical properties.
You might use slightly higher voltages and wire feed speeds to achieve proper penetration and fusion, especially with spray or pulsed spray transfer.
However, precise control over **heat input** becomes even more critical to avoid overheating and compromising the weld's metallurgical properties.
Always follow manufacturer recommendations for optimal **welding parameters**.

Question 25: Can AWS A5.18 ER70S-3 be used for multi-pass welding on thick plates?

While ER70S-3 *can* be used for multi-pass welding, it's generally not the first choice for thick plates due to its lower deoxidizer content.
It's more prone to porosity on contaminated surfaces and might not offer the same interpass toughness consistency as ER70S-6.
For heavy multi-pass work, especially on thick plates, the superior deoxidation and mechanical properties of ER70S-6 (SG2, SG3) are usually preferred for more reliable **thick plate welding**.

Question 26: What considerations are important for storing AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 wire to maintain its performance?

Proper storage is paramount for ER90S-B3 to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to hydrogen-induced cracking in the weld.
Wire should be stored in its original, sealed packaging in a dry, climate-controlled environment.
Exposure to humidity or corrosive atmospheres should be strictly avoided.
Any wire that shows signs of rust or damage should be discarded.
Maintaining the integrity of the **welding consumable** is crucial for high-temperature applications.

Question 27: How does the ductility of weld metal vary between ER70S-6, ER80S-G, ER90S-G, and ER100S-G?

As the tensile strength increases (from 70 to 80 to 90 to 100 ksi), there is often a slight decrease in ductility (measured by elongation or reduction of area) in the weld metal, as strength and ductility can be inversely related.
However, reputable manufacturers formulate their "S-G" wires to maintain good ductility even at higher strength levels to ensure adequate **weld flexibility** and crack resistance under stress.
It's a delicate balance of properties.

Question 28: Can AWS A5.28 ER80S-G be used for root pass welding on pipelines?

Yes, certain formulations of AWS A5.28 ER80S-G are designed and qualified for root pass welding on pipelines, particularly those made from medium-strength low-alloy steels.
The specific wire's arc characteristics, puddle control, and consistent fusion are critical for achieving sound root passes that can withstand subsequent fill and cap passes.
This requires meticulous control over welding parameters and proper **pipeline welding techniques**.

Question 29: What are the common challenges when welding with AWS A5.28 ER90S-B3 on large components?

Welding large components with ER90S-B3 presents challenges related to maintaining consistent preheat and interpass temperatures across the entire part, controlling distortion due to thermal expansion and contraction, and ensuring thorough and uniform **post-weld heat treatment**.
The high cost of the base material and filler metal also amplifies the consequences of any welding defects, demanding exceptional **welding execution** and oversight for these critical **Cr-Mo steel fabrications**.

Question 30: How important is the manufacturer's data sheet when selecting any of these AWS A5.18 or A5.28 "G" wires?

The manufacturer's data sheet is absolutely paramount, especially for "G" classified wires (ER70S-G, ER80S-G, ER90S-G, ER100S-G).
Since the AWS standard does not fully define their composition, the data sheet provides the precise chemical analysis, detailed mechanical properties (including impact toughness at specific temperatures), recommended shielding gases, and specific welding parameters.
Relying on this document is crucial to ensure the selected **welding wire** meets your specific application's requirements and for effective **welding procedure qualification**.