Which polarity is workpiece positive and electrode negative, used with flux-cored electrode wire?

Which polarity is workpiece positive and electrode negative, used with flux-cored electrode wire?

• A. Pulse
• B. Neutral
• C. Straight
• D. Reverse

Answer: (C)

Straight polarity means the electrode is negative and the workpiece is positive. This setup is commonly used with flux‑cored electrode wires because the arc and slag behavior are well suited to DCEN, giving a stable arc, good slag coverage, and a bead profile that suits many FCAW applications. In this arrangement the heat is distributed in a way that helps the flux core shield the weld and deposit efficiently. The opposite polarity—electrode positive, workpiece negative—is typically used in other wire types or processes and isn’t the standard choice for flux‑cored wires.

Straight polarity means the electrode is negative and the workpiece is positive. This setup is commonly used with flux‑cored electrode wires because the arc and slag behavior are well suited to DCEN, giving a stable arc, good slag coverage, and a bead profile that suits many FCAW applications. In this arrangement the heat is distributed in a way that helps the flux core shield the weld and deposit efficiently. The opposite polarity—electrode positive, workpiece negative—is typically used in other wire types or processes and isn’t the standard choice for flux‑cored wires.