Flux-cored arc welding

Flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) is a semi-automatic or automatic arc welding process. FCAW requires a continuously-fed consumable tubular electrode containing a flux and a constant-voltage or, less commonly, a constant-current welding power supply. An externally supplied shielding gas is sometimes used, but often the flux itself is relied upon to generate the necessary protection from the atmosphere, producing both gaseous protection and liquid slag protecting the weld. The process is widely used in construction because of its high welding speed and portability.

• increased cost of consumables;
• the need for special skills, limiting the possibility of using the method in everyday life;
• lower, compared to the argon-arc method, the quality of the weld (part of the unmelted active powder enters the weld pool, which contributes to the appearance of foreign inclusions).

• the possibility of refusing to use heavy gas cylinders;
• free movement of the device, the ability to work with complex structures;
• increased labor productivity (in comparison with welding in shielding gas with a simple wire);
• insensitivity of the arc to the wind, the exclusion of the displacement of the protective cloud.