Evaluasi Cacat Sambungan Las SMAW dan FCAW pada Baja ASTM A36 dengan Variasi Arus Pengelasan Melalui Inspeksi Visual dan Magnetic Particle Testing untuk Aplikasi Konstruksi Deck Kapal Tugboat

Abstract

This study aims to compare defects of welded joints produced via Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) on 10 mm thick ASTM A36 steel for tugboat deck construction applications. This research is driven by the critical function of tugboat decks, which endure intensive cyclic and impact loads during towing and maneuvering operations, making weld joint quality a primary factor in structural reliability. The experimental methodology involved preparing three welded specimens for each welding process, utilizing E7018 electrodes for SMAW and E71T-1 flux-cored wire with 100% CO₂ shielding gas (at a flow rate of 18–22 L/min) for FCAW. All welds were executed in the flat position (1G) with a 60° single V-groove joint design. Visual inspection and Magnetic Particle Testing (MPT) were conducted to evaluate surface and near-surface weld integrity prior to mechanical testing. The findings are expected to provide initial technical recommendations for shipyards in selecting the optimal welding method for tugboat deck fabrication, thereby contributing to enhanced operational safety and structural reliability. However, further validation is recommended before direct field implementation.