How to Weld Vertical Up With Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Wire
Matt Underwood, welding engineer/CWI at Hobart, explains how to set up equipment and select the proper welding parameters for welding with Fabshield XLR-8 self-shielded flux-cored wire, as well as demonstrating gun angles and techniques for welding vertical up. The Hobart® Fabshield® XLR-8™ increases productivity in flat/horizontal or out-of-position welding compared to AWS E7018 stick electrodes. The Hobart® Fabshield® XLR-8™ can be used in lieu of 7018 stick electrodes.
This product can be used in many different applications and industries, such as:
Most self-shielded products will run on electrode negative, so if you have been running solid or gas-shielded flux core wire make sure to change your cables from electrode positive to electrode negative.
Hobart® Fabshield® XLR-8™ does have a thicker slag system, so it is important to have proper torch positioning as you weld up. The slag will be an indicator of how fast you can travel vertical up. It will be a slow progression, but it will still be faster and more efficient than a stick electrode.
For more technique tips and tricks, explore our collection of Technical Articles.