In the SAW filler metal wire code EL8K, what does the letter L indicate?

• A. Low manganese
• B. Medium manganese
• C. High manganese
• D. Very low carbon

Answer: (A)

The letters in the SAW filler metal wire code indicate the level of a specific alloying element in the wire. In EL8K, the L shows that manganese content is in the low range. This designation helps you choose a filler metal whose manganese level matches the welding needs: low manganese affects deoxidation, strength, and ductility of the weld metal, and is chosen when you want better ductility or to suit a low-manganese base metal. It does not refer to carbon content, nor does it imply medium or high manganese—those levels would be shown by different letters.