Ok I shall share my knowledge on Flux Core Welding. I’m not a perfect welder but I damn sure can make sparks fly and join 2 pieces of metal so they’ll hold together., so there’s that.
Flux Core welders are often the first welder many get their hands on. They are cheap and fairly easy to use. You can get one for under $100. It’s easy to make sparks and melt metal. It’s harder to make something that looks good and is structurally sound. Especially with thinner metals. Most noobs will burn a lot of holes using a Flux Core welder. We all do so don’t fret. Flux core welders run hot and are not as precise as say a MIG or a TIG. You can tame the beast somewhat so there’s hope.
I hope I can help with the tricks you’ll need to master in order to have some good welding skills and get beyond the screwing shit up stage. Using the correct settings along with using .030 wire will certainly help. Having the correct stick out will help too. You want about 3/4″ out on flux core machines.
Here’s a list of suggested videos that will help you become a Flux Core Master:
- Tech Tip: Flux-Cored/FCAW-S Troubleshooting – lincolnelectrictv
- GAS SHIELDED FLUX CORE WELDING FOR BEGINNERS – Weld.com
- How To Weld With Flux Core (Beginners’ Guide) – ChuckE2009
- Learn How to Flux Core Weld: FCAW Basics – Weld.com
- Welding and the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) – Jeffery Santo
- WELDING DEFECTS!! Porosity, Arc Strikes, Undercut – Weld.com
- Tips for Good Welding Penetration – Kevin Caron
- How to Weld Thin Metal to Thick Metal – Kevin Caron
- How to Reduce Warping While Welding – Kevin Caron
- How to Stay Safe in Your Metal Fabrication Shop – Kevin Caron
- Harbor Freight Bender Hacks, Tips and Tricks! – Dirt Lifestyle
Here’s a list of suggested flux core welding supplies and safety equipment:
- Flux Core Welder : https://ebay.to/37Fwd7e
- Angle Grinder : https://ebay.to/2tRKxeq
- .030 Flux Core Wire : https://ebay.to/2RvD1Pw
- Heavy Welding Gloves : https://ebay.to/2RvD9yu
- Welding Helmet: https://ebay.to/36vgtCq
- Safety Face Shield : https://ebay.to/2RsN2gb
- Leather Welding Apron : https://ebay.to/2tG6Jbr
- Safety Glasses : https://ebay.to/2O2qhgS