FCAW -vs- GMAW

Paul,

We are a “job shop” for the most part building aluminum, and occasionally steel, shipping containers.

We have a steel job coming through calling for fluxcore welding.

We would like to know  if there is an equivalent/ alternative to fluxcore available?

Amanda M.

Hi Amanda,

I looked over the equipment listed on your web site (removed-by PWC). 

I’m not aware of all the specifics of your situation, but your equipment list seems to indicate that your company would have no obstacles to using the FCAW (flux-core) process.  On your standard GMAW (Mig) equipment it would only seem to be a change in welding electrode and shielding gas.  The equipment may need larger drive rolls, liners and contact tips, but using the FCAW process with your existing equipment is a pretty simple crossover.  You would need to qualify FCAW weld procedures and qualify those Welders (people) doing the work.

If finding an alternative is a must, you might consider the GMAW process with a Metal-Cored welding electrode.  Again, your equipment would be compatible.  Your Welders (people) may already be considered qualified if they have qualified using the GMAW process with a solid electrode.  You would still require a qualified procedure (WPS).

The FCAW process and the GMAW (w/Metalcore) are fairly similar processes.  Both use the same equipment, similar shielding and a tubular electrode.  The FCAW process leaves an exterior slag deposit, the GMAW w/Metalcore does not.  The American Welding Society (AWS) considers Fluxcore and Metalcore different processes.  The Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) considers them similar.

Please remember, I’m making this observation with very limited information regarding the specifics of your situation.  If you would like to further discuss this you are always more than welcome to contact me directly.

Best Regards,

PWC