Cromarod 253 is a special rutile flux coated electrode designed for high temperature stainless steels of similar composition used at temperatures up to 1150 °C. The electrode is made on a fully alloyed core wire and deposits a 0.06%C / 22%Cr / 10.5%Ni / 0.17%N weld metal, microalloyed with the rare earth metal cerium to give stable high temperature mechanical and oxidation properties. Cromarod 253 runs with a low spatter arc to produce a smooth weld bead finish, easy slag detachability and particularly good vertical-up operability.