TOKO AWS A5.17 EM12K Submerged Arc Welding Wire

Submerged ARC welding process or also known as SAW welding is an automatic and high productivity fusion welding process. Compared to the Stick welding or SMAW process, granular flux in the process is laid on the unwelded seam area. Ideal for heavy fabrication, shipbuilding, pressure vessels, structural steel (beams, bridges), and pipeline welding.

Key Specifications:

• AWS Classification: Compliant with AWS A5.17 EM12K, indicating a medium-manganese, silicon-killed carbon steel wire designed for submerged arc welding.
• Chemical Composition:
• Carbon (C): ~0.10–0.15%
• Manganese (Mn): ~1.25–1.75%
• Silicon (Si): ~0.30–0.60% (enhanced deoxidation for cleaner welds).
• Low sulfur (S) and phosphorus (P) for reduced cracking risk.
• Flux Compatibility: Pairs with neutral or active fluxes (e.g., TOKO’s agglomerated/fluxes like F7A2-EM12K or F6A2-EM12K) to control weld metal properties.

2. Welding Performance

• Deposition Efficiency: High deposition rates (~8–12 kg/hr), ideal for thick-section welding.
• Arc Stability: Smooth, consistent arc with minimal spatter.
• Penetration Profile: Balanced penetration (medium depth), suitable for multi-pass welds.
• Weld Metal Cleanliness: Silicon content ensures effective deoxidation, minimizing porosity on oxidized or scaled steel.

3. Technical Specifications

• Wire Diameters: 2.0mm to 6.4mm (common sizes: 2.4mm, 3.2mm, 4.0mm).
• Current Types: AC or DC (typically DC+ for better penetration).
• Typical Applications:
• Current Range: 300–1,000A (depends on diameter and flux).
• Voltage: 28–34V.
• Mechanical Properties (with matched flux):
• Tensile Strength: 415–550 MPa.
• Yield Strength: ≥330 MPa.
• Elongation: ≥22%.
• Impact Toughness: ≥27J at -30°C (flux-dependent).
  

4. Applications

• Industries: Heavy fabrication, shipbuilding, pressure vessels, structural steel (beams, bridges), and pipeline welding.
• Material Compatibility:
• Carbon steels (ASTM A36, A516).
• High-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels (e.g., ASTM A572).
• Joint Types: Butt, fillet, and groove welds in flat/horizontal positions (SAW’s typical limitations).

5. Advantages

• High Productivity: Automated welding with fast travel speeds and minimal downtime.
• Weld Quality: Excellent X-ray quality with low hydrogen levels (flux-dependent).
• Versatility: Works with multiple flux types to tailor weld metal chemistry (e.g., toughness, strength).
• Certifications: Meets ABS, DNV, and ASME standards for marine and pressure vessel use.

6. Limitations

• Position Restrictions: Limited to flat (1G/1F) and horizontal (2G/2F) positions due to SAW’s gravity-dependent flux.
• Heat Input: High heat input risks distortion on thin materials (<6mm).
• Flux Handling: Requires dry storage (e.g., flux ovens) to prevent moisture-induced porosity.

Comparison to Similar Wires

When to Choose EM12K

✅ Thick-section welding (≥10mm steel plates).
✅ High-volume production requiring automation.
✅ Demanding environments (shipyards, structural fabrication).
✅ Cost-effective solution for carbon/HSLA steels.

Flux Selection Tips

• Agglomerated Fluxes (e.g., F7A2-EM12K): For improved toughness and crack resistance.
• Active Fluxes: For welding on rusty or scaled surfaces.
• Neutral Fluxes: Preserve base metal chemistry (e.g., for ASTM A36).

Storage & Handling

• Store wire in dry conditions to prevent rust.
• Re-dry fluxes at 300–350°C for 1–2 hours if exposed to humidity.