There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the ability to weld stainless steel with a self-shielded flux core wire.
The truth is you can weld stainless steel with a self-shielded flux-core wire for small structural welds. However, flux-core without gas (FCAW-S) doesn’t provide a very clean weld, so you shouldn’t use it where looks are important.
Below, we will cover everything you need to know before flux-core welding stainless steel. The most important thing, however, is using the proper wire and settings.
From there, you must hone your skills, as stainless steel is difficult to master.
Before starting, you should determine why you want to flux-core arc weld stainless steel.
Self-shielded flux-core welding (FCAW-S) is very versatile but not the best choice for welding stainless steel. Flux-core with gas (FCAW-G), MIG (GMAW), or TIG (GTAW) welding stainless steel is preferred because it provides a better-looking bead.
If you already own a flux core welder that isn’t capable of FCAW-G or MIG, then it’s an okay option. However, if you have an FCAW-G/MIG welder, consider purchasing the proper gas and wire to MIG weld stainless instead.
Not only will it provide a cleaner weld, but it’s also easier to use.
Purchasing a new welder or additional consumables isn’t likely worth it if you infrequently weld stainless steel. Finally, flux-core welding is a good option for welding stainless in a high-wind environment.
MIG welding doesn’t work well in high winds because the shielding gas gets blown away.
Unlike mild steel, stainless is not very forgiving because of the protective top coating.
Another reason that flux is not the best option for welding stainless steel is that you need to chip the slag off. Removing slag increases the chance of damaging this outer layer.
The upside to flux core is that it’s good for quick welds where strength is important, but looks are not. Not to mention, you don’t have to worry about purchasing and keeping shielding gas tanks.
If you want a structural weld that looks good, you’re better of welding with MIG or TIG.
To weld stainless steel with flux core, you first must get the correct welding wire.
Unfortunately, you shouldn’t use the welding wire for traditional steel applications. Instead, stainless steel needs a special alloy for its filler material.
The exact alloy wholly depends on the type of stainless steel you work with.
