TWI Industrial Member Report Summary 409/1989
By G J Carter
Background
This project has examined the effect of welding variables and flux formulation on fume emission rate (FER) and composition for flux-cored arc welding of stainless steel using all-positional consumables. The aim has been to identify welding conditions and formulation methods providing reduced FER and toxicity. The work programme was conducted using consumables which deposited weld metal containing nominally 19%Cr, 12%Ni, 3%Mo, but it is anticipated that the findings here will be applicable to consumables for other stainless steel types.
Assessment of emission rate was made using the Swedish fume box technique, while fume composition was determined using X-ray fluorescence and 'wet' analytical techniques. Current and voltage, shielding gas type and flow rate, electrode extension and wire diameter were studied, together with the effects of an experimental flux formulation.