Which statement is true about FCAW disadvantages?

• A. The electrode wire is generally more expensive than solid wire
• B. It has lower deposition rates than SMAW
• C. It is weaker in all welds
• D. It requires no post-weld cleaning

Answer: (A)

FCAW’s main downside is the higher cost of the consumable wire. Flux-cored electrodes carry flux material inside the wire, which adds to the price per pound compared with solid welding wires used in other processes. That means material costs for FCAW projects tend to be higher, especially on large or continuous welds.

The other statements don’t fit as disadvantages. Deposition rates for FCAW are typically high, often exceeding those of SMAW, so claiming they are lower isn’t correct. The idea that FCAW is weaker in all welds isn’t true—the strength depends on material, joint design, and proper parameter control, and FCAW can achieve full base-metal strength when done correctly. And FCAW generally requires slag removal and post-weld cleaning; even self-shielded or gas-shielded variants produce slag or slag-related residues that must be cleaned.