Fluxcored vs solid wire

[73redblaze]

Which is used for what and what’s the difference? I want to be able to weld the thickest metal my welder can handle. can anyone point me in the best direction for my needs?
Source:Type:ElectricWelder/Cutter:
Min. Gauge:24 ga.
Amp Output:35.0 - 88.0
Max. Gauge:1/8 in.
Welder Type:Wire feed, MIG welder
Dimensions:Welder Duty Cycle:20 percent @ 70AWelder
Input Volts:115​

 

[sled_dog]

Flux-Core is used for welding when there is no shielding gas. Does your welder have a regulator setup and all for using shielding gas?

Obviously Solid wire is when there is shielding gas. Shielding gas acts sort of as the flux in that case.

Flux-core welds hotter, so if you want to weld the max thickness you can with your welder, Flux-core is the way to go. However it won't make it magical. I mean if the max you can weld with solid wire is 1/8" in single pass, you MAY make a quality 3/16" weld with Flux-core.

Solid wire welds are prettier, and easier to make stronger. Remember, a good looking weld is more likely to BE a good weld. I get so sick and tired of hearing time after time "My welds are ugly but they are strong". The first step to a good weld, is a good looking weld(ok really the first step is PREPARATION). But crappy looking welds, usually are crappy welds.

 

[longbedder]

sled_dog is right on the thickness issue - you'll get slightly deeper penetration with flux-core. That being said, I wouldn't trust a critical weld that surpasses the rating of the machine (in other words don't go thicker than 1/8").

Flux core welds are gonna be covered in slag and spatter and will need cleanup - gas welds come out clean if you do them correctly. Flux core is nice outdoors if there's any breeze at all.

Side note: based on the spec you provided you're going to have to pay close attention to duty cycle. To weld the thickest material possible you'll have the amperage cranked all the way (88 amps). Yours has a 20% duty cycle at 70 amps. That means at 88 amps you'll be able to weld for maybe 45 seconds or one minute out of every ten minute period before overheating the machine.

 

[73redblaze]

sweet thanks guys

 

[Chevy305]

that is a tiny machine

 

[73redblaze]

yea but it fits my budget. I also have a 220 AC/DC lincoln arc for the bigger jobs

 

[brandenash1]

solid wire is where its at