SELF-SHEED-ELD FLUX-CORED ARK WELD-ING
Self-Shielded Flux-Cored, Arc, Welding
A welding process that uses an electric arc to join metals together while protecting the weld from atmospheric contamination.
Example usage: 'We'll be using Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (SSFCAW) for the metalwork on this project.'
Most used in: Industrial and commercial construction projects.
Most used by: Welders and metal fabricators.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Flux-cored Arc Welding (FCAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (GFCAW), Submerged Arc Welding (SAW),
What is Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (SSFCAW)?
Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (SSFCAW) is a welding process used in the construction of welders. It is a form of arc welding that uses a continuously-fed consumable electrode wire, with a flux-cored core. The flux-cored core provides a self-shielding of the weld, meaning that no outside shielding gas is required. This makes the process suitable for welding in outdoor and windy conditions, as well as in areas where shielding gas could be hazardous.
SSFCAW is well suited for welding thicker materials, and is often used for welding structural steel, as well as for general construction and fabrication. It is also used for welding aluminum and stainless steel, as well as for pipe welding. The process is faster than shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), and can be used in all positions.
The versatility of SSFCAW has made it a popular choice for many welders, and the use of the process has been steadily increasing for the past few decades. According to the American Welding Society, the use of SSFCAW has increased by over 160% in the United States since 1980.
The Origin of Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (SSFCAW)
Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (SSFCAW) is a type of welding process using a flux core wire as the electrode. The flux core wire is a tubular wire filled with flux and an alloying element, and when heated, the flux creates a gas shielding around the weld. This process was first developed in the late 1950s in the United States.
The term “Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding” was first used in the early 1960s. It was used to describe the process of using a flux-cored wire as the electrode and the flux creating a shielding gas around the weld, thus eliminating the need for an external shielding gas. This process was quickly adopted by welders due to its ease of use and portability.
Today, Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (SSFCAW) is a widely used welding process in many industries, including automotive, aerospace, and construction. It is also used for many DIY projects and is a popular choice for welding professionals due to its versatility and effectiveness.
