High recovery (140%), austenitic manganese steel electrode for joining and hardfacing of high manganese steels which are subjected to very high pressure, shocks and abrasion. It is suitable to use as a buffer layer prior to hardfacing. Due to it is 12% Cr content, weld metal has high crack resistance and abrasion resistance with respect to other manganese steel electrodes. Weld metal work hardens by cold-working. Workpiece shall not become too hot during welding and when necessary, it shall be cool down before next hardfacing passes. High welding currents and wide-weave beads must be avoided. When welding large workpieces made of austenitic manganese steels, it is advisable to weld them in a water bath. Suitable for hardfacing and repair welding of dredge pumps, hydraulic press pistons, crane wheels, rail crossings, crusher parts subjected to impact of soft minerals.