Flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) is a versatile and highly efficient welding process that plays an important role in manufacturing, construction, and various industrial applications. FCAW utilizes a continuously fed tubular electrode wire with a flux core. This flux core serves a dual purpose: it generates a shielding gas to protect the weld from atmospheric contamination and acts as a source of flux, which provides additional deoxidizers and alloying elements to enhance the quality and strength of the weld. This process can be performed with or without external shielding gas, depending on the specific type of FCAW used.
This article will discuss Flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), its definition, purpose, how it works, and primary applications.
Flux-cored arc welding is a joining process that uses a continuously fed electrode wire with a flux core to create an electric arc and fuse together two metal pieces. It is a variation of the more commonly known gas metal arc welding (GMAW) or MIG/MAG (metal inert gas/metal active gas) welding.
In FCAW, the electrode wire consists of a metal sheath surrounding a core containing materials that protect the weld as it is formed. The flux core serves multiple purposes. It contains a number of powdered compounds, including: chemicals that create shielding gasses to protect the molten weld pool from atmospheric contamination; compounds that stabilize the electric arc; and alloying elements to adjust the filler metal composition to enhance the weld's mechanical properties.
FCAW is known for its high welding speed, deep penetration capabilities, and excellent weld quality. Also, FCAW has the ability to weld dirty, rusted metal, and can be performed in windy, outdoor environments, remote from the convenience of bottles of shielding gas and perfectly clean parts. It is widely used in industries such as construction, and shipbuilding, specifically for pipelines, structural fabrication, and repair work. FCAW offers flexibility, allowing it to be used on a wide range of materials, including mild steel, stainless steel, low alloy steels, and some non-ferrous metals.
FCAW is sometimes also referred to as “dual shield welding.” These terms are used interchangeably to describe the welding process that utilizes a flux-cored electrode wire to create an arc and join metal pieces.
No. Flux-cored arc welding and MIG (metal inert gas) welding are similar processes but have some key differences. While both use a continuously fed metal wire that serves both as welding electrode and filler metal, MIG (metal inert gas) welding relies only on externally supplied shielding gas to protect the weld, while FCAW relies on cover gas and slag generated by the core at the center of the electrode wire to safeguard against weld pool contamination.
MIG welding is costlier than FCAW and less compatible with various welding positions. FCAW is commonly favored over MIG due to its ability to generate stronger welds while demanding less skill for effective usage. Conversely, MIG yields more consistent outcomes but operates at slower deposition rates, making it well-suited for high-production settings. Also, solid wire (MIG) is less likely to get tangled or kinked than FCAW wire.
Flux-cored arc welding is used to join two or more pieces of metal by creating a strong and durable weld. It provides a shielded welding technique that is more efficient than stick welding but can avoid the complication of external shielding gas, such as is required by MIG. FCAW also shines at heavy-duty repair/construction in outdoor environments and does not require clean surfaces for the weld to be durable.
FCAW works by using a continuously fed electrode wire with a flux core to create and maintain an electric arc between the wire and the workpiece. The process requires a power source to provide the necessary electrical current and voltage. The electrode wire, consisting of a metal sheath surrounding a flux core, is selected based on factors such as the base metal being joined and the desired weld properties.
An FCAW arc is struck the same way a TIG or MIG arc is struck — you have to tap the material with the electrode and then back it off to the right distance and angle of attack to maintain the arc, generating intense heat. As the electrode wire melts, the flux core also melts, releasing compounds that serve various purposes. These compounds react with the heat from the arc, producing a shielding gas that envelops the weld pool. This shielding gas protects the molten weld pool from atmospheric gasses, preventing contamination.
The molten metal from the electrode wire transfers across the arc and fuses with the base metal, creating the weld. A layer of slag may form on top of the weld bead as the flux core melts depending on the type of FCAW used. The slag acts as a protective layer, shielding the weld from atmospheric contaminants. After the weld cools down, the slag can be removed by chipping or brushing.
The two main types of flux-cored arc welding are listed and described below:
In FCAW-S, the flux core contains sufficient materials to generate a shielding gas when it reacts with the arc heat. As a result, no external shielding gas is required. FCAW-S is often used in outdoor or windy conditions where the generated shielding gas helps protect the weld from atmospheric contamination.
This process utilizes an external shielding gas, typically a mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2) and argon (Ar), to protect the molten weld pool from atmospheric gasses. FCAW-G generally produces cleaner welds with reduced spatter compared to FCAW-S. It is commonly used in indoor welding applications.
Using a flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) machine involves several steps to ensure proper setup and operation. First, prioritize safety by wearing appropriate protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation in the work area. Familiarize yourself with the machine's controls, including the power switch, voltage, current, wire-feed speed adjustments, and other relevant settings. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to connect the power supply and ground the machine.
Next, select the correct electrode wire based on the type of FCAW process you are using (FCAW-S vs. FCAW-G), the metals you are joining, and the specific requirements of your project. Securely position and clamp the workpieces to prevent movement during welding.
Insert the electrode wire through the welding torch or gun, making sure it is properly aligned. Check the contact tip for good condition and secure tightening. Set the welding parameters on the machine, adjusting the voltage and wire-feed speed based on the material thickness and type. Consult appropriate welding procedure specifications or guidelines for recommended parameters.
If you are using gas-shielded FCAW, connect the appropriate shielding gas supply and set the flow rate according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Ensure that the gas nozzle is properly positioned.
Before beginning the actual welding, perform a test weld on a scrap piece of similar material to validate settings and evaluate weld quality. Make necessary adjustments to parameters if required.
To start welding, position the torch or gun at the starting point of the weld joint. Activate the FCAW machine, establish the arc, and move the torch or gun steadily along the joint, following the desired welding technique and travel speed. Maintain consistent arc length and torch angle throughout the process.
Monitor the weld bead during welding, ensuring proper penetration and appearance. Adjust welding parameters as necessary to maintain the desired weld quality.
Once the weld is completed, release the trigger or switch to terminate the arc. Perform any post-weld actions required, such as removing slag (if applicable) and cleaning the weld area.
When using flux-cored welding, it is recommended to use a pull (or drag) technique. This involves directing the tip of the welding gun toward the completed weld and dragging it away from the weld pool, down the line of the joint yet to be completed. When pushing the wire, there is a risk of the flux becoming trapped within the molten metal.
Flux-cored arc welding is a versatile welding process that can be used with mainly iron-based alloys such as: mild steel, alloy steels, stainless steel, and cast iron, as well as some nickel-based alloys. It is primarily used with ferrous metals. Some of the metals that can be welded using FCAW are listed below:
FCAW is frequently used for welding stainless steel material due to its ability to provide good penetration and weld quality. Stainless steel FCAW wires are available with a number of alloy compositions and flux types, allowing for the welding of different stainless steel types, including austenitic, ferritic, and duplex stainless steels.
FCAW can also be utilized for welding cast iron, which is a brittle material that requires special attention. Specific FCAW wires designed for cast iron welding are available. These wires often contain nickel or nickel-based alloys to provide a good match in terms of mechanical properties and thermal expansion.
FCAW is widely used for welding carbon steel, including low-carbon (mild) steel and high-carbon steel. It is suitable for a range of applications, including structural fabrication, pipelines, shipbuilding, and general metal fabrication. FCAW wires with different compositions and flux types are available to match the specific requirements of a given carbon steel welding application.
No, FCAW is not typically used to weld aluminum. FCAW wires are typically designed for use with a flux core that generates its own shielding gas, making them incompatible with aluminum welding. FCAW-G usually uses CO2 or CO2/Argon.
There is no AWS (American Welding Society) specification for flux-cored wire for aluminum welding, reflecting the dearth of aluminum-specific flux-cored electrodes on the market. Aluminum requires a different type of shielding gas, typically pure argon or a helium-argon mix, to protect the weld pool from atmospheric contamination. For more information, see our guide on the Characteristics of Aluminum.
FCAW is widely used across many industries that require efficient, high-quality welding processes. Some of the industries that commonly utilize FCAW include:
Yes, FCAW can produce strong welds when performed correctly and under appropriate conditions. The strength of an FCAW weld depends on such factors as: welding technique, welding parameters, base metal properties, filler metal selection, and joint design. FCAW offers the advantage of deep penetration and high deposition rates, which can contribute to the strength of the weld. The process can effectively join thick sections of material and produce welds with good fusion and mechanical properties.
Flux-cored arc welding offers several benefits that make it a popular welding process in various industries. Here are some of the key advantages of FCAW:
FCAW offers many benefits, but it also has certain limitations and disadvantages. Here are some of its disadvantages:
It depends. FCAW is certainly worth considering for many welding applications, as it offers several advantages and benefits. However, whether it is worth it or not depends on various factors specific to your welding needs and circumstances. Some factors to consider when evaluating the value of FCAW for your application are: the type of material, its thickness, the volume of materials to be welded, the location where the welding will be conducted, and if you have skilled welders who are experienced with FCAW.
No, FCAW is not for beginners, but it is an easy process to learn compared to other welding processes such as TIG. FCAW offers simplicity in its operation, with a continuous wire feed and no frequent electrode changes. It is forgiving of imperfect joint fit-up, tolerating some variation, thus making it more beginner-friendly. However, beginners should be aware of challenges such as the need for proper equipment setup, the potential for weld defects, sensitivity to environmental conditions, and the importance of safety precautions. Seeking proper training, guidance, and practice under the supervision of experienced welders or instructors is recommended to develop fundamental skills and ensure successful and safe welding outcomes.
Yes, flux-cored arc welding can be performed safely when proper safety precautions are observed. While there are inherent risks associated with any welding process, following safety guidelines and practices can mitigate these hazards. Welders should prioritize wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including welding helmets, gloves, flame-resistant clothing, and safety boots. This apparel shields the welder from sparks, UV radiation, and hot metal. Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent the buildup of welding fumes and gasses.
The term "arc welding" is a broader category that encompasses various welding processes, including flux-cored arc welding (FCAW). So, the main difference between FCAW and arc welding lies in their specific techniques and characteristics. Here are the key distinctions: