Also known as flux-cored arc welding, FCAW offers a wide range of advantages when you’re welding. It offers high deposition rates and is the best process for dealing with moderate amounts of rust and mill scale to produce high quality welds.

That said, there are a few common mistakes welders make when using this process. The good news? There are ways to avoid them too. Here’s a look at what to know and how to improve.

When it comes to proper plasma cutting, taking care of your equipment is key. Routine checks ensure the machine functions as intended, giving you the best performance. To help you in the process, here are some tips for maintaining your plasma cutting system each day, each week and on an ongoing basis.

Avoid Voltage Drop to Improve Weld Quality on Job sites

When it comes to defects with welding aluminum, most appear in the form of cracks. This is simply because you’re not welding pure aluminum, which is too soft for commercial use. Instead, you’re welding aluminum that is alloyed with another element, like copper or magnesium.

Whatever you’re welding, you need to properly adjust your drive roll tension to ensure consistent wire feeding and a stable arc. First and foremost, though, choosing a drive rolls that’s the right size for the wire being used is key. If the drive roll is too large or small, then it can lead to issues with feeding.