Copper-free, seamless flux-cored wires

Produced using a seamless manufacturing process, PrimeWeld offers a very low diffusible hydrogen level which is said to minimise the risk of hydrogen-induced cold cracking (HICC) when welding thicker components, especially critical in offshore applications. The seamless wire design also prevents moisture absorption, improving product shelf life and minimising any special storage and handling requirements.

Hydrogen cracking in the welds of offshore components is a severe defect. PrimeWeld’s design keeps hydrogen content to less than 3ml/100g over a wide operating envelope. Hydrogen remains low even after the wire is exposed to the environment. PrimeWeld delivers low hydrogen performance for the life of the spool. Because PrimeWeld is non-hygroscopic, no special storage or repackaging is needed, allowing users to confidently weld large components over several days.

PrimeWeld also exhibits exceptional tolerance to the formation of 'worm tracks' and porosity, which can be caused by moisture pick up. This is especially important when welding over primed steel components commonly used in offshore applications.

With PrimeWeld, ESAB combines a powder formulation and advanced production process technology to eliminate the need for copper plating of the wire. As a result, arc stability, feeding properties, rusting tolerance and contact tip wear erosion provided by this premium wire are said to be best in class. Prime Weld offers high tolerance to rust formation even in aggressive atmospheric environments. Its design eliminates wire feeding difficulties caused by copper flaking.

In addition, this all-positional cored wire offers an improved diameter tolerance and a stiffer wire construction compared to seamed wires, assuring excellent feeding properties with a high degree of stability even under severe welding conditions.