S1651519-002 - Hobart Fabco 115 1/16-inch Flux-Cored Wire 60lb Coil

Technical Overview of Hobart Fabco 115 K3

The Hobart Fabco 115 is a premium gas-shielded flux-cored wire designed specifically for the welding of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels. This product is formulated with a basic slag system, categorized under AWS A5.29 specifications as E110T5-K3C and E110T5-K3M. The "basic" nature of the flux is critical for metallurgical integrity; unlike rutile-based wires which prioritize operator appeal and all-position capability, basic wires like the Fabco 115 prioritize mechanical properties, specifically ductility and crack resistance in highly restrained joints. This makes it an indispensable consumable for fabricating components subject to extreme stress and fatigue.

Metallurgically, the Fabco 115 deposits weld metal with a tensile strength typically exceeding 110,000 psi (760 MPa), matching the requirements of quenched and tempered steels such as ASTM A514 (T-1), HY-80, and HY-100. The wire chemistry is carefully balanced to provide low diffusible hydrogen levels (typically H4, less than 4ml/100g), which is paramount when welding susceptible high-strength base materials to prevent hydrogen-induced cracking (cold cracking). The "K3" classification indicates a specific alloy composition ensuring consistent impact toughness, with Charpy V-Notch values remaining robust even at temperatures as low as -60°F (-51°C).

This 1/16-inch diameter variant is supplied in a 60lb coil, optimized for industrial wire feeders in heavy fabrication environments. It operates effectively with both 100% Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and 75% Argon / 25% CO2 shielding gas mixtures. While the Argon blend may offer a smoother arc and slightly higher tensile strength, straight CO2 provides deeper penetration and excellent fusion profiles. Due to the fluid nature of the basic slag system, this wire is restricted to the Flat and Horizontal positions, ensuring that the slag protects the molten pool adequately without entrapment.

For procurement and engineering specification, the Fabco 115 represents a top-tier choice for critical structural welds where failure is not an option. Its ability to handle poor fit-up and surface contaminants (within reason) while delivering X-ray quality welds makes it a standard in the heavy manufacturing sector.