I finally figured out why my forge welds kept failing after 3 months of frustration

Turns out the flux I was using was absorbing moisture from the air because I left the container open in my shop. Has anyone else had a problem with damp flux ruining their welds, or am I just the only one who didn't learn this in year one?

2 comments

2 Comments

xenarobinson8d ago

Moisture in flux can definitely cause issues, but honestly I think leaving it open is only half the problem. That type of flux is just kinda finicky even when you keep the lid on tight. Maybe try a different brand that's less sensitive to humidity.

the_max8d agoMost Upvoted

Yeah I actually read something about that the other day. Some guy on a forum was saying how certain flux brands use a different base that just absorbs moisture way faster than others. It makes sense though because I've had the same tube of flux last forever with no issues and then another brand goes bad in like a month. @xenarobinson might be onto something with trying a different brand entirely. I've been meaning to try that stuff from Kester I keep hearing about but haven't gotten around to it yet.