1/16" Seismic Flux Core Welding | Vertical 3F

Weld.com
20 Dec 201909:15

TLDRIn this welding tutorial, the host demonstrates the use of 1/16 inch diameter flux core wire for seismic flux core welding on a vertical 3F position. The video clarifies the polarity for different types of flux core wires and emphasizes the importance of checking specifications. The host uses Select 78 wire, suitable for seismic applications, and provides tips on welding technique, including maintaining the correct angle and distance for optimal results. The process involves careful side-to-side oscillation and a slow, methodical approach to achieve a strong, glossy weld suitable for structures under cyclic load.

Takeaways

  • 🔍 The video discusses welding with 1/16" diameter flux core wire, specifically for seismic applications and vertical 3F positions.
  • 🔌 It's important to check the 'T' designator on the flux core wire to determine the correct polarity for DC positive or negative.
  • 🧲 The video uses Select 78, an 88 wire suitable for seismic applications on thicker materials, unlike the T11 used for 3/8" or less.
  • 📏 A general rule for welding is that the weld width should be 5 to 6 times the diameter of the electrode.
  • 🛠️ The setup includes specific wire feed settings: 185 inches per minute and 19 volts for the Select 78 wire.
  • 🔧 The use of 1/16" knurled drive rolls is recommended for the wire feeder.
  • 🌫️ Good fume extraction is advised when welding indoors with flux core wires due to the smoke produced.
  • 👷‍♂️ The technique involves a 45-degree work angle, staying in the center of the puddle, and maintaining a 15 to 20-degree downward drag angle.
  • 🔄 The process is slow and methodical, with side-to-side oscillation to achieve the desired weld width.
  • 🔧 Post-weld inspection is crucial to ensure proper fusion and absence of porosity.
  • 🔄 Multiple passes may be necessary to achieve a consistent bead profile and to correct any inconsistencies.
  • 📝 The wire is recommended for structures with cyclical loads, such as bridges and buildings, and may fall under specific building codes like D-18 and possibly D-15.

Q & A

  • What type of welding wire is being discussed in the video?

    -The video discusses 1/16 diameter flux core welding wire, specifically for seismic applications.

  • What is the 'T' designator mentioned in the video and what does it signify?

    -The 'T' designator at the end of flux core wire indicates the polarity requirement. T3, T4, and T6 are all DC positive.

  • What is the difference between the 0.045 diameter wire and the 1/16 diameter wire being used in the video?

    -The 0.045 diameter wire is typically used in the shop, whereas the 1/16 diameter wire is used for larger applications such as welding thicker materials like three-quarter-inch plate.

  • What is the recommended welding speed and voltage for the 1/16 diameter wire used in the video?

    -The recommended welding speed is about 170 inches per minute, but the video suggests 185 inches per minute works well. The voltage should be between 18 to 19 volts.

  • Why is the correct polarity important for flux core welding?

    -Correct polarity is crucial as it affects the welding process and the performance of the flux core wire. Using the wrong polarity can lead to poor weld quality and other issues.

  • What is the purpose of the fume extractors mentioned in the video?

    -Fume extractors are used to capture smoke and fumes produced during welding to protect the welder from inhaling harmful substances and to maintain a clean working environment.

  • What is the recommended work angle for welding in the video?

    -The recommended work angle is roughly 45 degrees, which is dead center between the two plates being welded.

  • Why is it important to maintain a 3/4 to 1-inch stick-out distance during welding?

    -Maintaining a 3/4 to 1-inch stick-out distance allows the flux inside the wire to preheat and become active, which is essential for proper welding and quality of the weld.

  • What technique does the welder use to ensure even distribution of the weld material?

    -The welder uses a side-to-side oscillation technique, staying in the center of the puddle and ensuring that the weld is evenly distributed across the joint.

  • How does the welder address inconsistencies in the weld bead profile?

    -The welder slows down the welding speed, holds the sides a bit longer, and applies additional passes to achieve a consistent and smooth weld bead profile.

  • What is the appearance of the weld made with the T6 flux core wire, and why is it beneficial for seismic applications?

    -The weld made with T6 flux core wire has a glossy appearance without typical ripples. This type of weld is strong and suitable for seismic applications due to its quality and ability to withstand cyclic loads.

Outlines

00:00

🔧 Introduction to Flux Core Welding with 1/16 Diameter Wire

In this introductory paragraph, the speaker welcomes viewers to a welding tutorial focusing on the use of 1/16 diameter flux core wire. They address questions from a previous video regarding the type of polarity required for self-shielded flux core wire, clarifying that a 'T' designator on the wire indicates it's for DC positive use. The tutorial will use a specific wire, Select 78, suitable for seismic applications and thick materials. The speaker also explains the general rule for determining the width of the weld in relation to the wire diameter and sets up the machine according to the wire's specifications, emphasizing the importance of correct polarity and application.

05:00

🛠 Welding Technique and Setup for 1/16 Diameter Flux Core Wire

This paragraph delves into the specifics of setting up and executing a weld with 1/16 diameter flux core wire. The speaker discusses the importance of using the correct drive rolls and maintaining proper stick out and travel angle for optimal welding results. They also highlight the need for good fume extraction when welding indoors, as the flux can produce harmful fumes. The paragraph includes a detailed explanation of the welding technique, including maintaining a 45-degree work angle, staying in the center of the puddle, and using a side-to-side oscillation to achieve the desired weld width. The speaker also provides tips on how to handle the wire and maintain consistent weld quality throughout the process.

🔍 Post-Weld Inspection and Technique Adjustments

In this paragraph, the speaker describes the process of inspecting the weld after completion and making necessary adjustments to the welding technique. They use a wire brush to remove slag and visually inspect the weld for proper fusion and the absence of porosity. Noting some inconsistency in the weld bead profile, the speaker decides to slow down and apply additional passes to ensure an even and consistent weld. They also discuss the importance of maintaining the correct wire feed speed and termination technique to avoid issues like a ball forming at the end of the weld, which can hinder arc starting. The speaker emphasizes the need for patience and precision in this slow and methodical welding process.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Flux Core Wire

Flux core wire is a type of welding consumable that contains flux (a chemical cleaning agent) within its core. This flux helps to protect the weld from atmospheric contamination and stabilizes the arc during welding. In the video, the host discusses using a 1/16 diameter flux core wire for a specific welding application, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right type of wire for the job.

💡Self Shielded

Self-shielded welding refers to a process where the weld is protected from atmospheric contamination without the need for an external shielding gas. The flux within the core of the wire provides the necessary protection. The video clarifies a common misconception about polarity, stating that not all self-shielded flux core wires operate on DC negative, and highlights the 'T' designation for DC positive wires.

💡DC Positive

DC Positive is a polarity setting on a welding machine where the electrode is connected to the positive terminal and the workpiece to the negative. This polarity is suitable for certain types of flux core wires, as mentioned in the video, with a 'T' designation such as T3, T4, and T6, which are designed to be used with DC positive polarity.

💡Seismic Flux Core Wire

Seismic flux core wire is specially designed for use in structures that are subject to cyclic loading, such as bridges and buildings in seismically active areas. The wire used in the video is described as being suitable for seismic applications due to its ability to withstand the constant loads that are applied and released in such environments.

💡Vertical 3F Position

The term 'Vertical 3F position' refers to a specific orientation in welding where the weld is performed on a vertical surface, but the direction of the weld is upwards, against gravity. This position is challenging due to the effects of gravity on the weld pool. The video demonstrates welding in this position using a 1/16 inch flux core wire.

💡Filler Weld

A filler weld is a type of weld that is used to join two pieces of metal by filling the space between them with additional material. In the video, the host is running a filler weld on a T-joint setup, which is a common configuration in structural welding where two pieces of metal meet at a right angle.

💡Wire Diameter

Wire diameter is a critical factor in welding as it affects the size and shape of the weld bead. The video script discusses the difference between using a 0.045 diameter wire and a 1/16 diameter wire, with the latter being used for the demonstration. The host also explains the rule of thumb for the weld width in relation to the wire diameter.

💡Stick Out

Stick out, also known as electrode extension, is the length of the welding wire that extends from the contact tip to the workpiece. The video emphasizes the recommended stick out of 3/4 to 1 inch for the 1/16 diameter wire, which allows the flux to preheat and be ready for the welding process.

💡Fume Extraction

Fume extraction is the process of removing harmful gases and particulates produced during welding. The video script mentions the importance of good fume extraction when welding with flux core wire indoors, to protect the welder from inhaling potentially harmful fumes.

💡Welding Technique

Welding technique encompasses the methods and motions used by a welder to produce a quality weld. The video describes a technique for welding with a 1/16 inch flux core wire, including maintaining a 45-degree work angle, side-to-side oscillation, and staying in the center of the weld puddle for optimal results.

💡Slag

Slag is the non-metallic byproduct that forms on the surface of a weld as a result of the welding process. It needs to be removed to inspect the weld for quality. The video script discusses the removal of slag using a wire brush and the importance of inspecting the weld for proper fusion and absence of porosity.

Highlights

Explanation of 1/16 diameter flux core wire usage and self-shielded welding.

Clarification that not all flux core self-shielded wires run on DC negative.

Introduction to T designators for flux core wires, indicating different polarities.

Description of Select 78 wire, suitable for seismic applications and thicker materials.

Comparison between .045 diameter wire and 1/16 diameter wire, highlighting the 'big boy' wire.

Rule of thumb for weld bead width: five to six times the diameter of the electrode.

Importance of checking the spec sheet for correct wire specifications and applications.

Recommended parameters for welding: 170 inches per minute and 18-19 volts, with adjustments based on testing.

Discussion on maintaining proper stick-out distance (3/4 to 1 inch) for preheating flux.

Emphasis on proper fume extraction and safety measures to avoid inhaling fumes.

Technique tips: maintaining a 45-degree work angle and slight side-to-side oscillation.

Detailed explanation of globular transfer process and maintaining a slow, steady pace.

Advice on consistent weld technique, including maintaining contact tip to work distance.

Observations on different weld appearances, such as glossy appearance for certain wires.

Discussion on the suitability of certain wires for seismic and structural applications.