This type of flux-cored wire cannot be used by itself. It uses a separate type of flux-cored wire that is aided by additional protection from a shielding gas, either carbon dioxide or a mix of argon and carbon dioxide. The second type is called dual shield (FCAW-G). This process provides shielding of the molten weld pool exclusively from the flux in the wire. The first is called self-shielded (FCAW-S). The result of the fusion is known as the weld, and the slag is then chipped off. This creates a fusion of the base material and the filler wire. This arc creates a molten weld pool where the filler wire from the gun is dispensed and fills the molten crater created by the arc. However, the arc will not begin without the contact tip installed at the end of the gun, through which the wire feeds. This occurs because the current flows through the circuit created between the positive and negative of the power source. When the welder pulls the trigger on the gun, they strike an arc (up to 11,000° F!) on the workpiece. The tubular welding wire contains a flux that helps create a protective slag and a cloud of protective gas that shields the weld in its molten state from harmful things in the atmosphere. Image Credit: Thaweesak Thipphamon, Shutterstock How it WorksįCAW is characterized by the type of wire used. The gas comes out of a diffuser just below the contact tip. The gun also uses diffused shielding gas (depending on the exact process) that helps to cover the weld zone and protect the molten metal from outside contaminants as it cools. On the other side of the circuit is the welding ground clamp. The lead is known as the electrode side of the circuit. A welding gun dispenses it at the pull of a trigger. This feeder holds a roll of welding wire, which functions as the filler metal for the weld. A wire feeder is attached to the machine. Aside from the wire, let’s take a look at what makes each of them unique.įCAW (flux-core arc welding) is a semi-automatic welding process that uses a constant voltage power source on a welder/inverter where the voltage is set on the machine and stays relatively consistent throughout the welding process. The primary difference is the wire that is used. They both use MIG equipment, and FCAW is sometimes called MIG flux-core. What is the primary difference between FCAW and MIG, also called GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding)? The difference is not in the equipment. However, they are distinct from each other. They are known as ‘semi-automatic’ processes and are very user-friendly processes overall.
Both machines have a welding gun that strikes an arc with the pull of a trigger, feeds the filler metal from a roll of wire, and has adjustable parameters on the machine that stay relatively consistent. 0 FCAW vs MIG Welding: Differences & When to Use ThemĪside from automated welding processes, FCAW (flux-cored arc welding) and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding are the two most efficient welding processes out there.
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