Which direct current polarity can be used with FCAW?

• A. Positive
• B. Negative
• C. Positive and Negative
• D. Neither

Answer: (C)

FCAW polarity offers flexibility. The flux-cored wire and its shielding mechanism are designed to work well with either direct current polarity, so you can run the arc with the electrode positive or negative depending on the wire type and the weld goals. In practice, this means you can choose DCEN (electrode negative) for deeper penetration or DCEP (electrode positive) for higher deposition, but with the right FCAW wire and settings, both polarities are acceptable. That’s why the correct choice is that both positive and negative polarities can be used.