Troubleshooting
Why does my weld have wormtracks (flux-core)?
Quick answer
Wormtracks (flux-core) is caused by moisture in the wire or slag trapped by too-slow cooling. The fix: store wire dry, raise voltage slightly, keep the drag angle consistent.
Root causes
Moisture in the wire or slag trapped by too-slow cooling.
The fix sequence
- store wire dry, raise voltage slightly, keep the drag angle consistent
- Change one variable at a time and re-test on scrap
- Re-inspect the finished bead — chisel, brush, look
When to grind it out
Structural or pressure work with visible defects: grind back to sound metal and re-weld — never 'cap over' a defect and hope. For non-critical jobs, judge honestly: a cosmetic defect is a learning note; a fusion or crack defect is a redo.