Metrode E16-8-2-15 description: 308H and 16-8-2 stainless steel weld metals for oil refinery catalytic cracking units. The first catalytic (cat) cracker came on stream in the USA in 1942, and these units have been continuously developed to the point where they now represent the world’s major petroleum refining process. Over 400 units are in operation worldwide. Parts of the cracker unit operate at high temperatures for long periods of time and the correct choice of parent materials and welding consumables is essential to ensure long life of critical components.