ESAB's Dual Shield Prime Low-Hydrogen FCAW Wires Feature Laser-Welded Seams to Combat Moisture Absorption

SHANGHAI, Feb. 13, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ESAB Welding & Cutting Products has launched Dual Shield® Prime, a family of seamless, low-hydrogen (H4) non-copper-coated flux cored wires that combat moisture absorption in humid environments, delivering impact toughness down to -60 degrees C. Tests performed in accordance with AWS standards show an initial level of 2.17 ml of diffusible hydrogen per 100 g of deposited weld metal; after one week of exposure with a 90% RH at 30 degrees C, Dual Shield Prime demonstrated just 2.35 ml of diffusible hydrogen.

"We laser seal the seams, so there's no chance of Dual Shield Prime picking up moisture," says Neil Farrow, Global Product Manager, Flux Cored Wires, ESAB. "Even after extended storage and exposure, these H4 wires retain their low hydrogen properties. Where procedures allow, Dual Shield Prime's low diffusible hydrogen may eliminate or reduce preheat requirements." 

Dual Shield Prime wires are especially suited for high-tensile steels and applications that require low temperature impact toughness, notably in the ship, offshore, oil/gas and processing industries. All carry ABS approval, with additional approval by product, including BV approval, for the 81Ni1 H4 grades.

Operator Friendly
Users at naval shipyards and construction engineering companies report that Dual Shield Prime produces a very soft arc with almost spatter-free welds and easy slag removal, an important consideration in multi-pass applications. With a spray-type transfer, operators can easily manipulate and control the weld puddle, enjoy good wetting with tie-in at the toes of the weld and achieve good penetration. 

No Copper Coating
Dual Shield Prime is a non-copper-coated wire. As a result, there are no copper flakes to contaminate wire feeders, liners, torches and contact tips with copper particles. The result is trouble free feeding, high process stability, reduced consumption of wear parts and superior welding properties. Combined with lower diffusible hydrogen, these properties add up to increased productivity, lower welding costs and higher quality welds.

Dual Shield Prime Products
ESAB offers Dual Shield Prime in four different compositions and diameters of 1.2 to 1.6 mm:

• Dual Shield Prime 71 H4. For mild steel and 490N/mm2 class high tensile steel; uses Ar/CO2. 
• Dual Shield Prime 71 LT H4. For mild steel and 490N/mm2 class high tensile steel for low temperature service; uses Ar/CO2 or 100% CO2 shielding gas. 
• Dual Shield Prime 81Ni1 H4. For mild steel, 490N/mm2 class high tensile steel and 550N/mm2 class high tensile for low temperature service; uses 100% CO2 shielding gas.
• Dual Shield Prime 81Ni1M H4. Designed to weld thick steel components and for impact toughness down to -60 degrees C; uses Ar/CO2. 

Dual Shield Prime FCAW wires feature laser-sealed seams. Even after extended storage and exposure, these H4 wires retain their low hydrogen properties.

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products is a recognized leader in the welding and cutting industry. From reliable high productivity processes in welding and cutting to revolutionary technologies in mechanized cutting and automation, ESAB's filler metals, equipment, and accessories bring innovative solutions to customers around the globe. For more information, visit www.esab.com.

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