How Strong Is Flux Core Welding? | Gasless Flux Core Welding For Beginners Tips And Tricks |

Several people thought the flux core process was weak and dirty so this video is to basically test to see how well the welding process actually works. Settings are the same as last time and the welder is a vulcan omnipro 220 welder from harbor freight tools. Let me know if there are any other videos you guys want to see about welding and welding accessories.
Learn how to take your basic welding skills to the next level with 5 easy things your can do to have better performing welds in less than 10 mins. I go through 5 easy ways to weld flux core wire and make it look like gas mig welds. You can take these tips and tricks to better your hand control and finally get the welding results you are looking for. Flux core welding for beginners is the best way to learn how to make clean and concise welds with just a little bit of effort. It only takes a little bit of practice and you will be welding like a pro in no time at all. Tools used in the video are the vulcan 220 welder from harbor freight. Slag hammer from harbor freight. Tig welding gloves from harbor freight and Lincoln flux core welding wire size .030.
#Welding #fluxcore #Beginner

[@NightWrencher]

Theres a whole flux core welding playlist here on the channel full of videos like this so check it out!

[@nathanjumperskeane3851]

The only people that knock flux core have never got it running right, i well agreed with your video

[@NightWrencher]

Exactly right 👍

[@765outdoors]

Flux core is actually incredibly strong. It’s used it some heavy industrial/structural applications.

[@kennethrutt7986]

I flux welded 2 chain hooks onto my tractor bucket. My tractor has a maximum lift capacity of 1,300 lbs. I was moving a boulder that my tractor could barley lift and was actually tipping the back wheels of my tractor off the ground...and the 2 chain hooks I used to strap the boulder to my bucket held, did not show any stress, etc. This was all with only a 110v machine....I have no more fears of using my flux core over my 220v stick welder for small farm equipment.

[@NightWrencher]

If its done right, you can make welds stronger than the base metal even with flux core

[@somevids4187]

I just asked someone above if I could weld a steel bicycle frame with flux. I guess this settles it:)) I just have to do it right

[@sarahconner9433]

It's like making love...."penetration" is the key

[@martinhauk1852]

I used my HF 90A (converted to DCEN) to convert my HF motorcycle lift from a manual hydraulic jack to an electric powered hydraulic cylinder. The welds have to hold up to 10,000# of shear force and are holding well. Flux core doesn't make the prettiest welds but they are strong. I'm strictly an amateur welder, and until I got this welder, haven't welded since high school about 100 years ago. I'm convinced that if someone can't get a good weld with flux core, its not the machine's fault.

[@ChristopherSalisburySalz]

You need to get your dog some goggles! 😎😁 He's real chill about it. My pit would be on the ceiling if I did that by him! 😂

[@NightWrencher]

Lol she didn't even know what was going on. I rarely weld in front of them and actually havnt done any welding near them since this video. They only hang out when I'm filming because they hear me talk

[@jerrybishop5377]

@@NightWrencher well please pay attention next time dogs that dog's eyes are just as valuable as yours

[@BrucePierson]

@@NightWrencher I was actually going to mention that when I saw your dog. I was reading the comments on another channel and someone said that a dog went blind from watching the welding and deaf from the noise in the workshop and eventually got hit by a train and killed. A very sad outcome when the owner wasn't aware of what was happening until it was too late.

[@tystahl3961]

Flux core when done right, is just as good as mig or stick. I know from first hand experience. Thank you for the videos. They're very helpful.

[@jonarmstrong6214]

Flux core, when set right, has better penetration than solid wire.

[@NightWrencher]

Too bad people drop it too quickly in favor of mig

[@Migman2020]

On short arc yes.. your find solid wire spray is better

[@armandoakoni8241]

I've been welding for a few years now, not a professional. I can tig, stick and mig weld. My first welder I got a few years ago was the titanium 125 flux, It was like $150.00 I absolutely love that thing and find it simple to use.

[@NightWrencher]

Its a good welder for sure

[@swordfish1120]

Good vid. I've been welding with a flux core welder for years out in the field. I think flux-core welds are among the strongest.

[@nolanclay8121]

My first welder and the one that I use most of the time is a flux core welder, once you get the speed, technique and rhythm right it's all good. Everything I have welding with flux core remain strong even under heavy use. Even on my hay trailer.

[@jimbossemi-customs3129]

Another great video. I've only used mine to do body repair (hobbyist) and I've wanted to start using it for other applications. You do a great job and I would love to have your barn!

[@NightWrencher]

Thank you sir! Its a work in progress!

[@pasquariello72]

I’ve been doing a lot of field work with my stick welder, but after many years I’ve always doubted gasless mig welding, I was given an unwanted gasless welder and I find it more enjoyable than my mig and for site work I love it,now my stick welder is collecting dust.

[@NightWrencher]

Flux core is basically light duty stick. Once you learn it, its awesome

[@BrucePierson]

I'm a self-taught welder, first with stick, then flux-core MIG. I don't do a lot of welding, but one thing's for sure, it's way easier to weld with a flux-core MIG than a stick welder.

[@horaciosalinas8145]

👋

[@donsmith9081]

I was taught with stick welding. I did not care for wire welding because of all the moving/adjusting variables and trouble shooting. Now that I am well seasoned, my go to is both FCAW and GMAW before SMAW or TIG. Easier and faster.

[@NightWrencher]

Previous welding video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3q6n6ydmNN6eLs

[@jamesdavenport4990]

You will burn that welder out using a extension cord

[@NightWrencher]

Probably using it on a generator too but thats all I got right now, until I finish the barn unfortunately.

[@nickster0007]

That dog has definitely been around a welder a lot. Didn't even flinch with the noise or sparking. My dog would have been freaking out and cowering in a dark corner for the next 3 days.

[@ChristopherSalisburySalz]

Flux core is also used outside a lot because you can still weld even if there is a mild wind blowing. MIG won't work in a mild wind without setting up barriers. MIG is strong, clean, and easy - nothing against MIG. Flux core absolutely has its place and is great for a hobbyist that is willing to spend the time learning it.

[@NightWrencher]

I love flux core. Pretty much does everything you need and then some. Probably wouldn't recommend it for production work

[@BudMasta]

@@NightWrencher Dual shield is where production is concerned =)

[@Lucas_sGarage]

I use flux core because i can't afford the nitrogen/argon gas for mig, although my machine can do stick/mig/flux

[@waygone6657]

Good video. I've had a flux core at home for miscellaneous maint and hobby stuff. I'm not an accomplished welder meaning I have to read the directions on the settings and practice each time I need to use it but when I do get something welded it is welded meaning the welds don't break. For the cost and convenience Flux Core works fine when a person learns how to use it.

[@NightWrencher]

Exactly right 👍

[@bobanmilisavljevic7857]

I was just wondering about welding with a generator as I watched your video yesterday. It's cool to see you using a generator and that answers my question I didn't even ask. I can't wait to try this flux core welder I just picked up

[@NightWrencher]

The welder in this video is on a 3500 predator generator but Ive switched to a 10000 with a 30amp 110 plug so I can turn up the machine higher for thicker metal.

[@JayFude]

I often use my genny to weld, when you first spark off, either stick or mig, it takes a second for the generator to add fuel and bring the RPM's up under the sudden load, but once the bead is running, I think it is actually smoother than under grid, and it doesn't pop my breakers as often, since my welder and air compressor are on the same circuit. Also, my interior lights sometimes go low when I start welding, and my UPS on my computer complains about a voltage drop, which isn't good for some electronics.

[@wakejake3299]

@@NightWrencher great video one issue I had with my welder the extension cord. Longer the worst then to the gauge even more worse and then hooked up to a generator a lot of my problems started there without me knowing it. Welding for about 10 years now and I still love flux core gas less welding. And I'm pretty sure I saw your dog staring at the ark. I think your dog needs a helmet.

[@msbolan]

Omnipro 220, flux core, dogs, and proving that FC welding is a perfectly good process. Can't do a much better video.

[@NightWrencher]

Thank you! Much appreciated!

[@haroldg2688]

Awesome video bro. I just graduated from a welding training program. Keep Working Hard!❤️

[@NightWrencher]

Thank you 👍hope it helps you out!

[@PortoFlava1980]

Thanks gonna pick 1 of these welders up now :)

[@NightWrencher]

I don't think its worth tbh

[@KnightsArmory]

I agree. I mostly do flux core. I have made some really strong stuff with it. I use the exact same welder too 😁 great video! 👍

[@NightWrencher]

Thanks man! I really appreciate it!

[@somevids4187]

Would you recommend it for a steel bicycle frame? I want to make something different than usual but I can’t braze, I only have a flux invertor.

[@NightWrencher]

Flux core doesnt like to flex, it will break. Not recommended for a bicycle that flexes a lot

[@somevids4187]

@@NightWrencher ooof… that kinda kills the project. Maybe for thr better, thanks!

[@ricardomontes373]

Cheers my friend; you are on the right track and have a nice place there. That was a good test there; that cherry picker is heavy. To my knowledge, you can make structural welds with flux-cored welding process and if you are outside with windy conditions, gasless wire is the way to go.

[@NightWrencher]

Exactly right, I've built several heavy gauge critical components with flux core and the welds always penetrate and hold like theyre supposed to!

[@chachaloB]

Really good vid, thanks so much for share!!

[@NightWrencher]

Thank you!

[@robertblackshear8963]

Good video. A good welder that knows what their doing can weld very well with fluxcore.

[@snapihansen]

i love that instant replay with highlight circle around the action :D

[@LNRRidez]

Dude, you earned a sub from me for this series!

[@NightWrencher]

Thanks man, I'll be sprinkling welding videos here and there so enjoy your stay!

[@ataarjomand]

Thanks for the tips and info 🙏

[@NightWrencher]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@stevendimakos9211]

Thanks for your well explained video

[@NightWrencher]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@questonmark4144]

Again, thanks a lot !

[@NightWrencher]

👍

[@bayoupirate3808]

Excellent presentation. Thanks

[@NightWrencher]

I appreciate it! Thanks!

[@metalbob3335]

Flux core, the best of both worlds. Fries like bacon and makes my car stay in one piece. Thank you Flux core.

[@NightWrencher]

Double win 👍

[@frostybud6217]

i watched the first video on this playlist, just as a freshin up. i havent really welded in about 4 years. its also my first project with my very own welder. i extended the trailer tongue on my boat trailer. the beads are decent and i even got some vertical ones in that look pretty bitchin for first time vertical passes. your vids were a big help

[@Dailyfiver]

Cheap ☑️ Strong ☑️ Affordable ☑️ Effective ☑️ All I needed to hear. Sold 🤣

[@johnransom685]

I've been playing with a HF 125 flux core machine and have done a little destructive testing. I find that the mild steel I'm using starts to fail first by bending. Then the harder bead cracks. I've also found that if I do a root pass and layer two more beads in the fillet, the weld will hold despite crushing the base metal with a big hammer.

[@codys3579]

I build conveyor systems and do facility maintenance I use flux core all the time and never had an issue.

[@NightWrencher]

The proof is in the pudding for sure

[@barefootblacksmith1471]

Last video it was daylight, and I was disappointed, glad to see you living up to your name. People that say Flux core is and inferior process are silly. A bad craftsman will always blame the tool.

[@NightWrencher]

Haha filming at night time is really hard because I dont have enough lights to get clear images but I try to do what I can!

[@michaelmayes9532]

Thank you so much!!! Novice here.

[@NightWrencher]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@rickpullins8590]

Good video.

[@NightWrencher]

Thanks man 👍

[@jasonlopez4855]

I made some fork extensions for my forklift at a 3/8 and c channel works very well at my junkyard. I used flux core 035

[@NightWrencher]

Very cool 👍

[@cannab-al9582]

flux core works fine. i fabricated a disc brake mount for my 1000w ebike yesterday, welded it to a steel frame bike. 1/4 steel, lap joints. also its just a Lincoln weldpack 100. lol. the best tip for a clean weld other than technique is anti splatter spray. done right you wont even have slag to chip off and the BBs dont stick to the steel if you're a learner. it cpeans the steel and leaves a film to keep splatter from sticking. i started on a gas mig. with that spray my end results are about the same. maybe better, cant test it since i no longer have access to a gas fed mig.

[@NightWrencher]

It'll work just be careful!

[@hentisof]

i love my flux welder i used to my byke fuel tank and works so great even u can weld prety good just need experience to do it i got 14 year working on agroindustry

[@NightWrencher]

Good job!

[@keithbordlee976]

Thanks for the info and demo.. Love the boxers..

[@NightWrencher]

Thanks man! We just had puppies too

[@keithbordlee976]

@@NightWrenchercongrats.. been there and did that several times. Always fun and puppies are awesome to watch growing day to day. Waiting on my wife to decide on when we are doing our next which is will be our 6th generation on our bloodline.

[@NightWrencher]

We are on gen 5 right now. Theyre 5 weeks old

[@keithbordlee976]

@@NightWrencher it's an awesome feeling to have a lineage that long. My wife takes great pride in her babies. Once again congrats. If you'd like to see out babies we are on FB Butterflys Boxers

[@NightWrencher]

@@keithbordlee976 I'll check it out! Thank you!

[@MicahEZ]

I've been working on side steps on a truck for a customer, and one of the steps had a good 3" x 3" rusted through patch. I put my flux core welder on low volts and filled the whole thing in and smoothed it out with the grinder.

[@NightWrencher]

😂 good job. I would have just made a patch and welded it in but if it works, it works 👍

[@martinwilliams9285]

Couple months back I got back into using flux core, I've mostly used used mig on my last two jobs, but here at my house I do a lot of stick welding and flux core welding old oilfield pipe mostly and the ocainsal square tubing but it works well with the right polarity and settings

[@ronniewesson475]

Thanks for the information. Could you show a video showing it’s strength same as you did except grind the weld down as in a finish product? Keep it up 👍🏼! I have the Lincoln 100 HD and it does good I’m guessing but I’m just a novice weekend warrior and no clue it’s potential.

[@NightWrencher]

No problem! I'll get on it asap. These machines can do a ton of stuff if used properly. I'll have more videos like this coming soon

[@dannyjohnson5752]

I have A240 Volt Lincoln welding machine I always use flux core it penetrates well and I've never had any problems with strength

[@barrybebenek8691]

I went Flux core because as a hobbies I couldn’t ever see purchasing a tank of gas to go along with everything else (cost-wise). I like it for my purposes. 🇨🇦👍🏼

[@Youtubeforcedmetochangemyname]

Flux core also works good outside in somewhat windy conditions

[@NightWrencher]

That's probably the best part!

[@jasonmaddox8913]

I weld on all steel work boats with .052 wire and I’m here to tell you that it’s plenty strong enough

[@NightWrencher]

I dont doubt it!

[@JayFude]

FLux core works outside better than just gas, since under high winds (I live in KC, where the wind only stops blowing just before the tornado hits), the flux doesn't blow off exposing metal for instant oxidization. Dual shield is great too, since you have the flux plus gas. You can also use flux to get in tight spaces, since you can weld with the outer cup off.

[@NightWrencher]

There are tons of benefits to flux core but people wont listen

[@jonathanberry1111]

@@NightWrencher I don't have experience with it yet, but clearly slag is a point against it (unless compared with stick).

[@foreverstrong693]

I love flux core..great penetration!

[@NightWrencher]

I use it on everything!

[@dominic6634]

Its pretty strong just need to know your stuff like amperage and correct wire

[@qmoonwalker3847]

Very true! Don't need anything too elegant for what I'm doing! Now maybe when I build that launch vehicle to take me to mars I may upgrade 😂

[@NightWrencher]

Trust the process and practice!

[@spikeleestree8015]

I like my flux welder. It produces great penetrating welds and cheap to operate. Period. I use it in my tractor repair business. Only things i dont weld are lawnmower blades..

[@NightWrencher]

Its a very useful process, works on almost anything

[@tonypace2009]

Thanks I am getting a welder pretty soon for some work on my XJ. Plan on eventually adding frame stifiners and getting jcr front bummper kit. Looking at a 125 amp welder that's in my budget range . Would like to see sheet metal welding tips. Have some drilled holes to fill where previous owner installed rack on roof by drilling directly through roof and relay could use some guidance on filling they are 1/2 holes. One person told me to put a sheet of copper on bottom against backside of whole and fill hole with weld. And some one else suggest making a sheet metal plug and weld around circumference by just using tack welds . Not going to put fancy paint job over repair mainly just want to seal up the hole. Any videos would be helpful

[@NightWrencher]

I'll see what I can do! Usually I use a piece of sheet metal behind the hole and tack it in place. Then I would use body filler, sand and paint. That hole is too big to just fill it with weld, youll warp the whole thing real quick

[@bonethang374]

If the wholes are small enough, I’ve cut the heads off of nails and used them as filler plugs

[@NightWrencher]

Yes, I've done that too. Works pretty good if youre careful

[@maxjones9139]

Check out a channel called Fitzee’s fabrications. It’s an incredible source for automotive metal work tips n tricks. He has given me the confidence to tackle projects I used to avoid.

[@tonypace2009]

@@maxjones9139 thanks

[@davidpalen2543]

you can make structural welds with fc. Ive certifided 3/4g with 212 fc wire

[@danburch9989]

This video proves the nay-sayers wrong. For those who say stick welding is better, they don't understand flux core welding. It's exactly the same process. The difference is that stick has the flux on the outside of the wire; flux core has the flux on the inside of the wire. I saw a video where the guy built a cargo trailer using the cheapest flux core welder available (HF model). His welds looked as good as any high end welding machine. Your video also showed that a common generator can be used to power a welder.

[@NightWrencher]

Busting down all the myths in one video 🤣

[@Gabriellariz]

Which Vulcan machine are you using, and are you happy with it? Gracias

[@NightWrencher]

I have the omnipro 220. I like it because its a multiprocess machine so I can learn mig tig and stick but I really only use mig and stick. You need to buy all the extra stuff if you want to do TIG.

[@fishcatchernicholas8553]

i don’t care what people say i will always still enjoy flux core welding but i also love mig with gas

[@NightWrencher]

Its a good process for sure

[@hooknjfishadventures2483]

Any videos of spool gun flux aluminum without gas. And strength test.

[@NightWrencher]

Im not actually sure if there even exists flux core aluminum wire 🤔

[@123nlusky]

Do you change the polarity for gas less welding? Eg Earth to positive and Torch to negative. I have read tutorials that say I should but my welder has no clearly accessible option to do it?

[@NightWrencher]

Yes, it should be reverse of standard mig so it would be electrode negative earth positive. Follow the earth wire to where it bolts to the machine and if you can undo the nut, look for the nut for the electrode and swap them

[@sunspiral79]

You may have a flux only welder. Some don't have the option for gas

[@sarahconner9433]

For flux core most flip.. Stick to negative ,, ground clamp to base metal positive..

[@BrucePierson]

It seems that you stirred up a hornet's nest with comments about flux-core. I built my trailer with flux-core and I'm not even a professional welder. In fact, I've never used a gas MIG. I might go months without doing any welding, then do a little bit or a lot, so it's not worth me having gas. I would also agree that flux-core works well with a light wind, as I do my welding outside. One disadvantage of flux-core is that the wire is more expensive than plain wire. However, for infrequent use, it works out cheaper than having a gas bottle and getting it filled. The main disadvantages of flux-core are the fumes and having to clean the slag. A gas welder produces a clean weld (with no slag) and doesn't produce the fumes that a flux-core welder produces, so a gas welder is much better for indoor use.

[@jaijamias4362]

Sir nightwrencher which one is easier to use, stick or flux gasless? Newbie here thanks

[@NightWrencher]

I think flux core is easier because you need to learn all the motions on stick first but on flux core, its just point and shoot

[@pnp8849]

I use fc 308L on stainless water heater tank and water keep seeping out at around 30 psi. Eventually have to take it to shop for repair with gas. It could be I'm new to welding but normally I don't have issue with regular weld.

[@mattgreef1676]

Good afternoon from the UK mate I'm looking at welding some dies for my fly press in you opinion will the welds be strong enough please help 🙏

[@NightWrencher]

It really depends on the material of the base metal. If its made of cast iron, the welds might not hold without a good amount of heat before and after. If its forged steel then you should be OK as long as you Vgroove what you are going to weld and put in a lot of heat so you get good penetration. Depending on the thickness, stick welding might be a better option. Good luck!

[@mattgreef1676]

@@NightWrencher thank you I thought that would be the answer what power stick welder should I get 😆

[@NightWrencher]

There are a few really cheap machines out there for just stick but I wouldnt know which one to recommend for you.

[@DXT61]

Also Flux is generally DCEN while GMAW is DCEP. Some get bad results from not switching polarity from MIg.

[@NightWrencher]

Yes it is. A lot of people keep telling me this, but I assumed it was a basic fact when setting up your machine to do flux core so I'll get into it in the next welding video!

[@TheSocialPraxis]

Bro, do a video of this with 2 beads on opposite sides and lift something heavy to show it is strong. I just started welding so I don't know alot about strength but to me it seems hella strong 🤷🏾‍♂️.

[@NightWrencher]

Theres not much more I can do to prove how strong it is. Doing the most amount of work with the least amount of weld is usually a good way to test your welds. I've built my whole truck using flux core and none of the welds have failed. As long as you have proper penetration without overheating the metal you should be good

[@jerryhatrick5860]

Flux core is used in structural steel. For years now. It isn't the tool it's the person welding. I stretched a blaster rear swing arm with Flux core. 12 years ago. It's still holding to this day. And sees lots of abuse. Jumps and all I did however. As always over build. I cut the swing arm at and angle two of em to get the 4 inch stretch, and sleeved it from the inside drilled holes and plug welded. I have welded with Flux core all angles, upside down sideways verticle horizontal and flat. Pacfice practice. Nothing wrong with Flux at all

[@whatsamazing1531]

Dog needs some goggles 🤣, Good video

[@NightWrencher]

Thanks man 🤣

[@PsychNurse.]

Is gasless Flux core okay for steel bicycle frames? Thanks

[@NightWrencher]

Yes, but flux core is brittle. Strong but brittle so for a mountain bike its no good. Road bike it'll probably be fine. Still would not recommend

[@Kyle-ev4fk]

Do you run a string bead when welding that thin square tube?

[@NightWrencher]

It depends on your technique but you should be able to no problem

[@toddm7861]

I’ve never really had a clean up problem, and I have no problem with penetration and not burning through just with the settings it tells you to use on the welder. I don’t know why these things get knocked, they’re really useful and effective. The welder is use is only titanium 125 bought at harbor freight.

[@juanmartinez6843]

Is it safe to run a welder on a generator idk if you’ve already answered this question but im a beginner to welding i just started watching your videos but I’ve heard that its not safe to use a generator bcs generators produce what’s called dirty power and can damage the welder is this true?

[@NightWrencher]

All my videos are with a generator. I use an inverter style generator so it produces clean power. A 3500 watt inverter generator will handle whatever you need to weld as a DIY

[@donsmith9081]

Fluxcore is more penetrating than solid wire. MIG or solid is preferred when there is limited or no wind that blows shielding gas away and material is clean.

[@NightWrencher]

Exactly right

[@richardmoore6295]

mig is fast and easy to make pretty. stick and fluxcore are better for strength and outdoors and can be nice looking too.

[@wolfewispr]

for someone who knows how to weld with flux core it is every bit as good as mig. If you think about it, it's like arc welding. Arc welding the rod has the flux on the outside of the electrode, flux core it is on the inside. you get a thicker rod with arc, but with flux core if you aren't going too fast you are able to put more wire into the weld. So with flux core you have to be a better welder.

[@lucasblizzard7261]

I rock a Lincoln mig Pak 180 and burn Lincoln self shielded. It's structurally rated and is comparable to a 60xx smaw rod. It has a tensile strength of about 60 Ton, per 1/4 inch fillet at one inch long. Mig is cleaner, smoother and looks nicer... But even self shielded flux core is approved for structural. If you're using rated consumables, it's not inferior

[@NightWrencher]

Exactly right 👌

[@hideandtwitch7249]

lol i am a structural welder and we weld everything with fluxcore dual shield it has very good penetration and metal deposition

[@ChristopherSalisburySalz]

I think flux core actually welds hotter than MIG - not sure. It is messy but other than that it's fine. The people complaining about it probably get lots of slag inclusions in their flux core welds because they aren't doing it right. I think it's just harder to do right than MIG so people don't really learn how to do it right.

[@NightWrencher]

I have noticed that standard mig flows out easier than flux core but Ive been able to get better penetration with flux core

[@richardmoore6295]

i learned stick first so mig seemed so easy but when i tried fluxcore i never used solid wire again.

[@Ls400Saint]

So flux core can be used to make bash bars for cars ? Or make some go kart frames ? I just got a titanium flux core 125 from harbor freight but didn’t know there different types of welding

[@jb8478]

Did you end up using that welder on any framework? How did it go?

[@NightWrencher]

I never saw this message, my bad. Flux core is strong but brittle. I would not use it on anything that flexs a lot like a fram. Can it be done? Yes, absolutely. Would I depending on it for a critical component? Probably not.

[@jb8478]

@@NightWrencher Thanks for the response. I figured I'd go with a 3 in 1 that provides the flux core and stick. What kind of amperage am I looking at to properly weld with stick for about 1/4" steel? Would 220 do the job?

[@darkwinter6028]

It works just fine, as long as you’re doing it right. If you’re making any of a number of errors, you will, of course, get a bad result. The same applies to all welding processes.

[@crash10201972]

I build trailers with it. No issues yet

[@NightWrencher]

"Yet" 🤣

[@projectf025]

I mostly use Flux for welding no bigger than 3/16 on my car projects

[@NightWrencher]

Flux core is perfect for that 👍

[@sarahconner9433]

Good welders can join multi pass 5/8 inch thick steel plate welds

[@jjuarez83]

Muy Chingon

[@mikepoint4717]

Would a flux core welder be ok for a frame rail for a car ?

[@NightWrencher]

Yes but it depends on what you're welding exactly and how thick the metal is. Thinner metals like mopar subframes are really easy to weld with smaller wire like .030 because theyre so thin but chevy frames are much thicker so you'll need more heat and thicker wire like .035

[@mikepoint4717]

@@NightWrencher hey thanks for the quick reply, I have a 83 cutlass and it needs the right side replaced , I thought maybe a flux core welder might do it . New sub here

[@TheProchargedmopar]

👍

[@NightWrencher]

Thanks man 👍

[@bobolmstead5873]

My only comment is to just be aware that "most" gasless FCAW filler materials contain 1% aluminum. Aluminum really like oxygen. The function of that Al, in the filler material, is to "scavenge" out oxygen. This means it is to prevent/keep oxygen out of the solidifying weld puddle (to make your weld NOT look like an Arrow chocolate bar). A side effect of that 1% aluminum is "real poor" impact values. So, NEVER EVER use gasless FCAW wire to weld up a trailer hitch, for example. Yes, gasless FCAW gets used a ton out in industry (in the right places). Yes, you can get 70,000 ultimate tensile strength (UTS) out of a gasless FCAW weld. No, it cannot be used in every situation where MIG, or even stick welding is employed. NightWrencher, pretty good stuff!!

[@NightWrencher]

Thats really interesting! Thank you!

[@bobolmstead5873]

@@NightWrencher .........the most common way to combat that issue is nickel. 1 or 2% Ni can/will offset that aluminum thing. You will regain that lost impact outcome. You cannot, however, meet "most" hydrogen requirements with a gasless FCAW wire. Cheers.

[@michaelwillcutt2619]

Majority of people with bad flux-core welds didn’t know how to weld with gas either it wasn’t the machine but the person welding it

[@jdwht2455]

I've done both with my Lincoln 225 and prefer welding with gas if for no other reason is that it makes a much cleaner weld if you dislike or don't want splatter cleanup. For welds that are out of sight or in the field, the flux core is fine and just as strong but mine were never pretty, looking more like bird tu#ds

[@michaelwillcutt2619]

Depending on who doing the welding proper heat range for thickness of metal proper penetration makes the difference

[@mrmeowcomeshome1300]

Can you tell me make/model of your welder (3500watts)

[@NightWrencher]

I have different ones. The main ones I use are the Lincoln 2300HD, omnipro 220 and the yeswelder 205DS

[@mrmeowcomeshome1300]

@@NightWrencher thank you : )

[@pjstaudinger]

Now I understand the saying “blinder than a welders dog”

[@binarycode1431]

Is it safe for dogs to be near you while you weld?

[@unstablenester941]

I was not impressed with flux core at all until I was told to reverse the polarity, and then the world was right again. I have not had a problem since.

[@J.petty124]

Traded in my flux core for stick. You talkin bout 60 psi, im lookin for 60,000. We are not the same.

[@NightWrencher]

Flux core is rated at least 70,000 when welded properly 🙄

[@gilbertogandarilla8507]

I weld my triler tongue whit flux core i never have problem on 4 years still like if i welding yesterday

[@Lucas_sGarage]

I purchased a mig welder but when I saw the price of the gas bottle i was like nah I'm getting flux core, i don't like stick welding for all of the "starting the arc", having to change electrodes and all of that, it's strong enough for me

[@NightWrencher]

Flux core is the every-mans process

[@cephotoclub]

I was more worried about the fact the dog was looking at the welding

[@jackrabbit7389]

I have never broken a fluxcore weld I always bend or break the parent metal before tue weld breaks. Everytime.

[@NightWrencher]

Ditto

[@drakeawoken4189]

should those dogs be nearby when your welding? they dont understand to not look at the arc...