What submerged arc welding flux is used for welding gas storage tanks?

The following summarizes commonly used fluxes based on relevant standards and research, along with typical wire combinations. It is recommended that in practical applications, reference be made to national standards such as NB/T 47015 (Pressure Vessel Welding Regulations) or group standards, and welding procedure qualifications be conducted.

Recommended submerged arc welding fluxes and wires for common steel materials

Explanation: Flux models such as HJ431, SJ101, and HJ350 are common brands, while F5A0-H10Mn2 and others are classification standards (similar to AWS specifications), indicating the performance level of the combination of flux and welding wire. The HJ series fluxes (e.g., HJ431) are often used for carbon steel and low-alloy steel, with good slag detachability and crack resistance.

Special Application Examples

• Low-temperature storage tanks (such as liquid oxygen or LNG, with steel like 13MnNi6-3): It is recommended to use flux PH-H55LT, paired with a 4mm diameter welding wire (with components such as C 0.08-0.16%, Mn 1.70-2.20%, etc.). Welding parameters: current 450-680A, voltage 28-33V, speed 36-66cm/min, no preheating required, suitable for -60°C environments.

• Large storage tanks (such as 08MnNiVR steel): Flux MF—33H (JIS Z 3183 S 624—H1) is matched with US—49 welding wire (diameter 3.2mm). It is suitable for automatic submerged arc welding and can improve construction efficiency.

• Marine LNG storage tanks (such as 9Ni steel): Flux TFS-340 (EN ISO 14174 S A FB 2 55 AC), matched with TW-17 welding wire (ASME SFA 5.14 ERNiCrMo-4, diameter 2.4mm).

If the gas storage tank is used for high pressure or specific gases (such as hydrogen), additional consideration should be given to hydrogen embrittlement resistant fluxes.