Flux core mig

admin

Hey, I’m starting a bumper project and I’m trying to dial in my settings on the welder. Using a Hobart handler 190 at 60 speed and number 6 out of 7 on the heat as recommended on the machine label. However I feel I’m not getting the beads I’d like. Flux core .035 wire 1/4” plate. Any tips and help would be appreciated. Too fast? Too slow? If I go smaller beads it pools up on me instead of flattening out.

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Reply:Be careful with the flux core around windows, lights and paint on your vehicle.  L
Reply:Yep. Lol. I’ll just tack it then pull it and weld. I also don’t want pieces flying into my radiator, condenser and trans cooler.
Reply:A single tack will destroy a window! I think 3M has a paper made for protecting vehicles while welding.
Reply:any reason you aren't using gas at least for the tacks? I had a Hobart Handler 190 for a long time and it would do a really good job on 1/4 inch material with 0.030 wire and 75/25 or 100% CO2.
Reply:It’s a bit windy where I’m welding. And I don’t have a gas cylinder yet. good to know! Thanks! But how’s my welds looking?
Reply:On the top photo.  Before making machine adjustments. I would say slow down and trace the puddle.The bottom. Appears to be the same coupon and was hot from the precious weld. Let it cool or travel faster.Post more photos of your practice...
Reply:So maybe the second one I’m welding too hot? what do you mean when you say trace the puddle? I was thinking maybe I’m sweeping  too wide with my beads.
Reply:Keep the wire in the puddle and push it where you want it to go. Watch the puddle flow not the wire. If you plan to grind smooth, then prep the metal with vee's so you don't grind the bead away.
Reply:Just to clarify it's either Mig (solid wire) or Flux-Core (hollow wire) and not Flux-Core Mig. This is what messes people up when trying to give advice. There is however self-shielded Flux-Core ( what you're using) and gas shielded Flux-Core often referred to as Dual Shield (gas shielded as well as flux shielded). Knowing which process helps greatly in getting advice.
Reply:

Originally Posted by tapwelder

Keep the wire in the puddle and push it where you want it to go. Watch the puddle flow not the wire. If you plan to grind smooth, then prep the metal with vee's so you don't grind the bead away.
Reply:

Originally Posted by MinnesotaDave

I would respectfully disagree a little bit.  The wire needs to trace the front of the puddle.  Staying in the puddle can cause insufficient fusion.I tell students that if they don't see the arc cut fresh metal, then assume it didn't.
Reply:

Originally Posted by MinnesotaDave

I would respectfully disagree a little bit.  The wire needs to trace the front of the puddle.  Staying in the puddle can cause insufficient fusion.I tell students that if they don't see the arc cut fresh metal, then assume it didn't.
Reply:The 1st picture looks good, maybe slow wire speed or turn up volts.  But those beads will hold!It seemed like a good idea at the time!