Welding Question: Flux core with shielding gas?

I was visiting my grandfather over vacation and while he was showing me some new toys he got recently, including his plasma that can cut through 1 1/2" steel plate (they R&R heavy equipment), he told me about how they had switched from solid wire to flux core with shielding gas. Apparently a number of welders around him do the same. I hadn't heard of this, though I guess it's not that big of a stretch. He says the penetration is much better and was surprised at how well it worked. Considering I will never be welding 1.5" thick plate -- especially on a rally car -- is this worth pursuing? Also seems to me that .30 is the smallest size for flux and sometimes you want to go .024 on certain parts of the car. Thoughts from the welding experts?

...Brian...

Far from an expert, I personally don't like welding with flux core w/ shielding gas, although it's pretty common for the construction trades to use it for welding pipe and plate (although for field work on thick material stick welding is probably more common), I prefer gas shielding for doing chassis, cages, etc. It's cleaner and quieter and penetration shouldn't be an issue if you're using proper heat for the material.

Yeah, the best for heavy duty is a combo.
Kevin and I were modding the Toyota pick up axles and while i was doing the lathe work Kevvie was welding the 6 bolt holes up in the flange parts with flux plus gas.
Excellent welds, very little splatter and machines nicely.

Now the cheez-oid shit junk 110 flux only shit junk sold as mig welders , well fawk that.
But REAL heavy duty sheeeut it rocks.

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John Vanlandingham
Sleezattle, WA, USA

Vive le Prole-le-ralliat

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flux sux

I use dual shield quite a bit. I like it, but dealing with the flux is a pain. You have to be very careful not to get slag inclusions. Dual shield also works well on thin material. I run .045 innershield with C02 at work and .030 solid wire with 75/25% at home.

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Robert.

"You are way too normal to be on Rally Anarchy." Eddie Fiorelli.