Long-term storage of rutile flux-cored wires in shipyard environment

This paper presents the effects of long-term exposure on five low-alloy steel rutile flux-cored wire grades. Wires stored under shipyard conditions in a cold, wet climate were subjected to metallographic observations and electrical resistance measurements. Welding tests were performed, recording the stability of welding parameters, followed by visual and radiographic tests, tensile tests of the welds, and diffusible hydrogen content measurements. Surface degradation and increased electrical resistance were observed, depending on the wires' production method and construction. Stable welding could still be performed with almost all tested wires, even after 24 months of storage. As storage time increased, weld elongation decreased for all wires. An increase in diffusible hydrogen content was observed in all wires. For wires with a seam, levels exceeded 5 ml/100 g after one month, and wire D reached 12.5 ml/100 g after 24 months. Although seamless wires were more resistant, their hydrogen content also increased.HighlightsTwo-year storage of flux-cored wires in a Baltic shipyard.Changes in surface condition and electrical resistance of the wire.Decrease in elongation of padding welds.Diffusible hydrogen content exceeding safe levels.