Basic flux cored electrodes have core ingredients rich in limestone and fluorspar, similar to the covering
on basic (E4918) electrodes. These electrodes do not readily operate in the spray mode. Metal
transfer occurs in the short circuiting mode at low currents and in globular mode at high currents
(Figure 4.27). While the penetration characteristics are comparable to that of rutile wires, the arc is
less stable, with considerable spatter. More important, the slag is very fluid making it difficult to use
basic wires for out-of-position welding. Due to the basic nature of flux ingredients, the weld deposit
has relatively low hydrogen content and superior notch toughness compared to rutile wires (Figure
4.28).