Investigation on the bubble dynamic behaviors and corresponding regulation method in underwater flux-cored arc welding

Observed two bubble growth modes indicated that the stability of arc burning and bubble growth relied on each other. Under selected welding parameters, the maximum diameters of generated bubbles complied with approximately normal distribution. Higher preset welding parameters generated larger bubbles with gradually receding influences. Vaporization, condensation, and reactions happened rapidly inside the bubbles even after detachment and when coming to water surface. Gas-assisted underwater flux-cored arc welding was proposed to improve the slag coverage. This method was also effective in achieving better weld appearance.