Which welding process does not require shielding gas and relies on the flux in the wire for protection?

The correct choice highlights a welding process that uses flux within the wire to serve as a protective barrier against contamination during the welding operation. In Flux-Cored Arc Welding, the core of the tubular wire contains flux that melts during the welding process, producing a shielding gas that protects the molten weld from atmospheric elements. This inherent capability allows Flux-Cored Arc Welding to be performed without the need for additional external shielding gas, making it versatile for various applications, especially in outdoor settings or challenging environments.

In contrast, other processes such as Stick Welding also utilize a flux, but the flux is part of the electrode coating rather than the wire itself. Gas Tungsten Arc Welding requires an external shielding gas, typically argon or helium, to protect the tungsten electrode and molten weld pool. Similarly, Submerged Arc Welding relies on a blanket of granular flux which covers the weld area, but it does not function as a gas and requires specific setups that are different from the Flux-Cored method.

Understanding the unique characteristics of each welding process helps in selecting the appropriate method based on job requirements and environmental conditions.