Wicked spatter with flux core wire

[ArcTan]

I've been experimenting with my "new" setup (XMT 304 with a a Hobart Hefty), and I just put a spool of .035 flux core wire in it and I'm getting terrible spatter and BBs everywhere. Maybe I have some settings wrong or maybe I'm just forgetting how messy flux core is. Haven't used it in quite a while. Usually using solid wire. Any suggestions?

[12V71]

Looks like the voltage may be a bit high. Turn down to 17-18 or so. When I run .045 on the Trailblazer with one of the Miller VS feeders, I usually start at 19-21V on the machine end and dial in at the feeder.

PS... You are wire negative, right? I forget that once in a while myself.

[Welder Dave]

Need to fill in some more details. What flux-core wire, are you running on CV, correct polarity for the wire, etc. Looks a little cold/lumpy to me. More volts generally flattens the bead a little but may need to experiment a bit with settings. Check polarity first.

[ArcTan]

I bet it's wrong polarity...
Thanks for the tips. On my champion there is a polarity switch but with the XMT I have to swap the leads so I hadn't thought about it. It is gasless Forney wire, I'm fairly certain I had it on CV, and probably around 20-21 volts.

[Oscar]

and don't forget a longer stickout compared to solid wire MIG

[CAVEMANN]

I seems like I get more spatter with the Forney wire, I prefer NR-211, but can't get it locally.

[snoeproe]

Never really been of big fan of using self shielded wire. I much prefer gas shielded flux core wire when it's possible. I even prefer to use stick over self shielded wires.

[ArcTan]

Never really been of big fan of using self shielded wire. I much prefer gas shielded flux core wire when it's possible. I even prefer to use stick over self shielded wires.

Agreed, unfortunately I don't have a tank or regulator for this at the moment...

[snoeproe]

I’ve had a spool of Hobart 21b wire in my suitecase feeder for a while.

[smithdoor]

I agree with Oscar
I think it is most common problem I see.
It so bad my shop purchased long Nozzle for all welders.

Dave

and don't forget a longer stickout compared to solid wire MIG

[John T]

Wicked Pissah !