Had a question that has come up out of another thread that I started concerning some less than high quality wire. The wire I have bought is requiring me to use more stick-out than I am used to when I am welding at higher voltages. Porosity in the welds is the reason( I am coming to the conclusion that moisture might be present in the wire or the flux is not consistent inside the wire). The wire is flux core .035, here is the question. Other than for critical x-rayed types of welding, how much of a difference in penetration is there if you need to back your stick-out, out to 1" to 1.25"? I am talking realistic working penetration. In other words, should I be that concerned about this? I have always been told increasing the stick-out will decrease penetration, but how much?The welds look good, however I have not ground them down or done any destructive testing yet. My welding is mostly just hobby, or farm kinds of things. Thanks for any opinions that come out of this.
Mark
Mark
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