5 things you need to do during Flux Cored Arc Welding

Flux cored arc welding (FCAW) is one of the most widely used welding processes with a variety of applications. You can use FCAW for a number of different welding positions, unlike most other welding processes. And this virtue of its, according to flux cored wire suppliers, is what makes it so popular among welding companies across numerous industries and sectors. But just like it is the case with all types of welding techniques, FCAW is also a process that gives results if performed with clinical perfection. If you are new to this process, then you may want to know all the things you need to do while performing FCAW to get the desired results. And if that is indeed the case, then this blog is just what you need to read! So without further ado, here’s presenting the 5 things you need to do while performing FCAW.

1. Keep all the tools you need at hand
Flux cored wire manufacturers in India say that the first thing you need to ensure before you start FCAW is that you have each and every tool you require, and also the protection equipment such as welding jacket and mask, safety glasses, ear protection, etc. is brought into the welding location. All safety equipment must be put on before you start welding. Equipment of the likes of pliers, grinder, metal ruler, clamps, fume extractor, etc. should be readily available to you. Also ensure that you maintain a safe distance between the welding area and certain potentially inflammable materials.

2. Secure the metal and make sure it is cleaned
According to flux cored wire suppliers in India, if FCAW is performed on clean metal, the weld quality will go up drastically. Hence, it is imperative that you clean the metal before starting the welding process. You should ideally use a wire brush or grinder equipped with a wire wheel for the cleaning. But before you use a grinder, secure the metal with clasps.

3. Cut the metal right and set it perfectly
After you clean the metal, you need to cut it in the required length. To ensure that this is done accurately, mark the metal using a sharpie and a ruler (straight-edge euler preferably). Secure the pieces by using clamps before you cut them. After you are done cutting the pieces, set them in the precise position in which you want to weld those pieces. Use magnets to get the pieces at the desired positions. Start welding after you are certain that all the pieces are set just where you want them to be.

4. The core welding process
Before you begin welding, verify if the welder settings are in accordance with your requirements. Thicker metals need higher voltage and higher wire speed. After the welder is set, ensure that every corner of the workpiece is tack welded such that either side of the metal is fused with the other. Pay attention to where the weld metal deposition occurs when you pull the torch trigger. Flux cored wire manufacturers would also ask you to ensure that you hit the workpiece precisely at the point the two pieces come in contact. Use a wire brush for removing slag and cleaning the weld metal. Use bead welds to fill the seams that remain. Pay attention to and maintain consistency in the torch angle, travel speed, and electrical stick out as they affect the weld appearance.

Also, Read - Handy welding safety tips

5. Final cleanup
Use a wire brush along with a chipping hammer to remove slag and spatter before you begin grinding. If you find a defect, reweld it.

According to Diffusion Engineers, one of the leading flux cored wire manufacturers and suppliers in India, and also one of the country’s top welding consumables manufacturers & suppliers, these 5 steps need to be executed perfectly during FCAW. If you have any welding material requirements, like if you need welding consumables, welding electrodes, flux cored wires, etc., get in touch with them to get high quality materials at affordable prices.