S249425-008 - Hobart Fabcor 86R 5/64" Metal-Cored Wire, 600lb Drum

Technical Analysis: Hobart Fabcor 86R (AWS E70C-6M)

The Hobart Fabcor 86R is a carbon steel, metal-cored electrode classified under AWS A5.18: E70C-6M H4. Designed for the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW-C) process, this 5/64" (2.0 mm) wire offers a robust solution for welding mild and low-alloy steels. It is formulated to operate with mixed shielding gases, specifically Argon/CO2 mixtures ranging from 75% Argon/25% CO2 to 95% Argon/5% CO2. The use of higher argon content promotes a spray transfer mode that is smooth, stable, and virtually spatter-free, optimizing the welder's control over the puddle.

Technically, the "86R" designation indicates a formulation rich in manganese and silicon deoxidizers. This chemical composition is critical for applications involving mill scale and light rust, as the deoxidizers scavenge oxygen and impurities from the weld pool, preventing porosity and ensuring sound mechanical properties. The wire exhibits excellent wetting characteristics, producing a flat to slightly convex bead profile with superior tie-in at the toes. This makes it particularly effective for high-speed fillet welds where bead shape and fusion are paramount.

The 600 lb drum is designed for continuous operation, often utilized in robotic or hard automation setups. The wire requires DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive) polarity. Typical operating parameters for the 5/64" diameter wire involve amperages in the range of 300 to 550 amps, with voltages typically between 26V and 32V depending on the gas mixture and stick-out. The H4 hydrogen designation ensures low diffusible hydrogen levels (less than 4ml per 100g of weld metal), reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking in thicker sections or restrained joints.

Specifications and Parameters

• AWS Class: E70C-6M H4
• Diameter: 5/64 inch (approx. 2.0 mm)
• Shielding Gas: 75-95% Ar / Balance CO2
• Current: DCEP (Reverse Polarity)
• Typical Charpy V-Notch: 20 ft-lbs @ -20°F (-30°C)
• Tensile Strength: 70,000 psi minimum (typical 80-90 ksi)

This wire is an excellent alternative to E70S-6 solid wires when higher deposition rates and better gap bridging or scale tolerance are required without the heavy slag burden of flux-cored wires.