S225724-V14 - Hobart Fabshield XLR-8 0.072 Self-Shielded Flux Core Wire 50lb Coil

Technical Overview of Hobart Fabshield XLR-8

The Hobart Fabshield XLR-8 is a premium self-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-S) wire designed to meet the rigorous demands of critical structural applications. This specific SKU (S225724-V14) features a 0.072-inch diameter and is supplied in a 50 lb vacuum-sealed coil, ensuring optimal moisture protection and hydrogen control upon opening. The wire is engineered to provide exceptional mechanical properties, specifically high impact toughness at low temperatures, making it suitable for harsh environments and demanding code requirements.

Classified as E71T-8JD H8 under AWS A5.20, Fabshield XLR-8 is formulated for all-position welding, with a particular emphasis on high-productivity vertical-up capabilities. It operates on Direct Current Electrode Negative (DCEN) polarity. The "D" designator indicates that this wire meets the requirements for Demand Critical welds under AWS D1.8, the Structural Welding Code – Seismic Supplement. This makes it an industry-standard choice for the erection of structural steel, bridge construction, and offshore rig fabrication where seismic resistance is paramount. The H8 designation guarantees a diffusible hydrogen content of less than 8ml per 100g of weld metal, reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking in heavy-section steel.

Technically, the XLR-8 offers a wide operating window and high deposition rates compared to traditional stick electrodes or other self-shielded wires. The slag system is designed for quick freezing, supporting the weld puddle in out-of-position work while remaining easy to remove, often peeling off in large sections. This reduces inter-pass cleaning time and improves overall duty cycles in industrial fabrication settings. The 0.072-inch diameter allows for higher amperage ranges, facilitating deeper penetration and faster travel speeds on thick plate sections.

For procurement and quality assurance, this product delivers consistent arc stability and bead geometry. It is an essential consumable for MRO operations involving heavy infrastructure repair and new construction where shielding gas logistics are impractical due to wind or site accessibility.