Which polarity can be used with FCAW?

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

Answer: (C)

In flux-cored arc welding, polarity is about which electrode is positive and which is negative, and that choice changes how heat is distributed in the weld and how the arc behaves. Flux-cored wires are designed to be versatile and can be used with either polarity. Many FCAW wires are rated for both direct-current polarities, so you can select positive or negative depending on the weld goal—penetration, bead shape, and deposition rate—without changing the process. Because the flux core provides most of the shielding, FCAW doesn’t rely as strictly on the shielding gas as some other processes, which makes dual-polarity operation common. Always check the wire’s specification, but the general rule is that both polarities can be used with FCAW.