It is very important to know the advantages and limitations of different welding methods.
The welding technique has some advantages over other methods due to its unique properties.
As for the flux contained inside a tubular wire, it provides gas protection by forming a slag layer.
This process is referred to as FCAW (flux-cored arc welding).
In fact, it is quite similar to MIG welding.
It should be noted that some machines are suitable for MIG and FCAW welding.
Although, the filler wire makes the process different.
It forms a continuous slag coating which supports and shapes the weld during welding.
Advantages Of FCAW
Self-shielded welding wire is well suited for outdoor work, as the flux in the wire provides reliable gas protection even in windy weather.
It doesn’t require gas protection from an external source.
Therefore, there is no need to purchase additional gas equipment for the FCAW process.
In addition to this, the setup of the equipment is much easier and faster.
Industrial Application
Cored wire better suits for welding thick profile materials, as it is less prone to the formation of cores.
Uniquely, flux-core welding has a much higher melting capacity.
It is similar to MIG welding, and in some cases even exceeds the performance of gas shielding wire welding.
In the case of particular electrodes, the cladding capacity is 1-2.5 kg of metal per hour.
As regards to the FCAW process, the welder can deposit up to 4 kg of metal in vertical welding and more than 6 kg in a horizontal and down position, depending on the wire used.
Unlike most welding methods, flux-core welding doesn’t require thorough cleaning of steels before welding.
This page is also available in Spanish.
