What wire diameter is the Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire available in?

The Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire is available in .045, 1/16 diameter. Wire diameter selection depends on base metal thickness and travel speed requirements: .023 in suits thin sheet metal (up to 3/16 in), .030 in is versatile for 1/8–1/4 in, .035 in is the most common all-purpose diameter for 3/16–1/2 in steel, and .045 in or larger suits heavy plate and high-deposition applications.

What shielding gas or flux type does the Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire require?

The Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire is a flux-cored wire. Flux-core wire comes in two types: FCAW-G (gas-shielded, dual-shield) requires external shielding gas (typically 75% Ar/25% CO2 or 100% CO2) for full protection; FCAW-S (self-shielded, innershield) generates its own shielding from the flux core and requires no external gas. The AWS classification E71T-11 indicates gas-shielded operation.

What is the deposit strength of the Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire?

For E71T-11: Deposit tensile strength for mild steel solid MIG wire (ER70S-x) is approximately 70,000 PSI (483 MPa) minimum. For stainless filler metals, the deposit strength matches the base alloy grade. For flux-core wires, strength and chemistry vary by classification — refer to the AWS classification on the package for the exact mechanical property requirements.

What spool size is the Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire available in?

The Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire is available in 55 lb, 500 lb, 33 lb spool/coil sizes. Smaller spools (2 lb, 10 lb) fit most hobby and light commercial feeders. Larger spools (33 lb, 44 lb) are standard for production welders with 12 in spool capacity. Drums and coils (250–600 lb) are used with bulk drum feeders for robotic and high-production applications.

How should I store the Lincoln SHS 9700U Flux-Cored FCAW-S Welding Wire to prevent weld quality issues?

Store MIG wire in a clean, dry location away from humidity. Moisture absorption causes porosity in the weld — mild steel wire is particularly susceptible. If wire has been exposed to moisture, it may show surface rust; lightly rusted wire can sometimes be used but should be wiped before feeding. Flux-core and low-hydrogen electrodes require stricter moisture control than solid wire. Keep spools in their original packaging or sealed containers with desiccant packets when not in use.