FCAW

By don

Date 10-18-2001 01:38

Would appreciate and "sage advice" on the by product created with the FCAW process. I realize gas shielded FCAW is an option, but when trianing welders in non shielded FCAW with 4 different electrode sizes I am always looking for "the little bits of information" that help them learn more. Do any of you out there have "a better way". I am specifically referring to reducing splatter and smoke. Thanks for your input !!!

By Kamaruzaman (*)

Date 10-19-2001 13:41

Current apply shall be optimun to the process.
Smoke is normal to self shield FCAW. If you run with gas shield porosity is easily happen but small amount of fume.

By - Date 10-20-2001 08:16

As a general rule, the amount of smoke and spatter per kg (or lb if you preffer.) of deposited FCAW is about the same as for SMAW. Because FCAW has a higher deposition rate, the smoke and spatter around at any time is more. Besides the advice already given of making sure that you are using the correct welding parameters, I can only advise you to try different brands of wire. Some brands tend to smoke more, and some less.

As you stated, gas assisted FCAW tends to smoke and spatter much less.

Regards
Niekie