New welders: smaller diameter flux core = better!
#1
Tough Mudder
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Smaller diameter wire heats up more quickly and is easier to use.
...at least for me. I'm using a 110volt 105 amp CH Mig/Flux setup. Went from 0.035 to 0.030.
...at least for me. I'm using a 110volt 105 amp CH Mig/Flux setup. Went from 0.035 to 0.030.
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Its all based on voltage. That little machine doesnt carry enough line current to run larger wire. Try running .023 even, smaller the better for those little 110v units. Its not a matter of heating up though, it is the actual strength of the arc.
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Compared to the same size mig wire you get more penetration with flux core wire, I don't think you can find smaller than .030" flux wire. Thin sheetmetal can be challanging with flux, I've used a flux welder for 5 years before I finally bought a MIG welder with gas... I use .023" wire for sheetmetal, works great.
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Flux core is awsome for heavy fabrication. A lot of millwright shops are now switching to them due to penetration issues with argon/co2/mix gas. Metal deposition isn't as great as with mig and it spatters a bit. If you don't mind it being ugly or you're going to grind it back down .030 flux core is the way to go.