TECHNICAL MANUAL

Contents 1. About Fiback™

2. Fiback™ Brochure

3. Selecting Proper Root Gap-to-Metal Thickness

4. General Instructions for the Application of Fiback™

5. Welding the Root Gap with Fiback™

6. Welding Specifications, Parameters and Test Results for Fiback™

7. MSDS

8. Other Aquasol® Products

About Fiback™ Fiback™ Fiberglass Weld Backing Tape greatly reduces and can even
eliminate the need for back purging. The tape is composed of two
adhesive areas on the outside edges and a center strip of fiberglass
resistant up to 1,022°F (550°C) that is capable of withstanding
applications between 300 and 600 Amps.

Because Fiback™ is composed of a flexible fiberglass fabric; it can

conform to a number of surfaces and shapes. Unlike ceramic tapes
which develop stress points between pieces, Fiback is consistent in
thickness creating a continuous bead during welding. Ideal for plate,
sheet and pipe welding, Fiback™ can be used for pressure vessels, large
bore pipes, shipbuilding, fabrication and many more applications.

Fiback™ is suitable for SMAW (stick), TIG and MIG welding processes,
and is compatible with carbon, alloy and stainless steels as well as
aluminum. Fiback™ greatly reduces weld set up time and ensures that
weld slag is safely collected in an enclosed weld pool, resulting in a high
quality weld. Once welding is complete, the tape can be removed from
the backside of the root gap, without the need for post-weld grinding or
back gouging.

Fiback™ is available in two roll sizes:

»»Item number AFBT 2.5 is 2.5 inches or 64 mm in width with an

1-1/8 inch or 28.6 mm Fiberglass Strip

»»Item number AFBT 4.0 is a is 4.0 inch or 102 mm in width with an

1-1/2 inch or 38.1 mm Fiberglass Strip.

Both sizes are 41 ft or 12.5 M in length.

Fiback™ Brochure

FIBERGLASS WELD BACKING TAPE

Fiback™ is suitable for SMAW (stick), TIG and MIG welding

processes, and is compatible with carbon, alloy and stainless
steels as well as aluminum. Fiback™ greatly reduces weld set
FIBERGLASS WELD BACKING TAPE
up time and ensures that weld slag is safely collected in an Outer adhesive strips stick
to the area surrounding
enclosed weld pool, resulting in a high quality weld.
the root gap

Fiback™ Fiberglass Weld Backing

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even eliminate the need for back Woven fiberglass strip
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back side of the root gap
of two adhesive areas on the
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strip of fiberglass resistant up to
1,022°F (550°C) that is capable of
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consistent in thickness creating a large bore pipes, shipbuilding, fabrication and many more applications.
Fiback™ Welding Back Tape is available
continuous bead during welding. in two roll sizes:
Item Number Width Fiberglass Strip Width

AFBT 2.5 2.5 inches or 64 mm 1-1/8 inch or 28.6 mm

AFBT 4.0 4.0 inch or 102 mm 1-1/2 inch or 38.1 mm
AFBT 2.5 AFBT 4.0
www.aquasolcorporation.com
Both sizes are 41ft or 12.5M in length.

Aquasol Corporation Distributed by:

80 Thompson Street
N. Tonawanda, NY 14120 USA
1.800.564.WELD (9353)
Phone: 716.564.8888
Fax: 716.564.8889
Email: [email protected]
www.aquasolcorporation.com
Selecting Choosing the proper root gap opening is key to successful weld-root and
fill-pass penetration.
Proper Root
Gap-to-Metal For steels with thicknesses ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 inch (3.2 to 12.7 mm),
the required root gap opening can range from 1/16 to 1/4 inch (1.6 to 6.4
Thickness mm). For materials whose thickness exceeds 1//2 inch (12.7 mm), it is
recommended that a 60° bevel be used to join the two metals: 30° on
each opposing plate or pipe.

For sheet or plate welding processes, metals ranging from 22 gauge

to 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) in thickness should not require a root gap or
beveling to obtain 100% weld penetration. When Fiback™ is used on
materials with smaller thicknesses; the welding puddle is protected from
atmospheric contamination to the backside of the weld joint.
General Prior to Application of Fiback™
Instructions for For best results, clean area to be welded with a wire brush. Then wipe
the area with a saturated cloth, such as EZ Wipes® multipurpose
the Application cleaning wipes, to remove any oil, grease and other contaminants.
of Fiback™
Application of Fiback™
1. Align desired base metals with a gap between 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) up
to a 1/4 inch (6.4 mm), depending upon the thickness range of the
base metal to be welded.*
*If necessary, refer to Section 3 of the American Welding Society’s
D1.1/D1.1M Structural Steel Code Book to determine desired joint
type and root opening dimensions.

2. After the weld joint has been properly fitted with the required root
gap, remove the release liner from both sides of Fiback™ Tape, 6 to
12 inches (152.4 to 304.8 mm) at a time.

3. Center the fiberglass strip over the backside of the root gap.
(Figure 1)

4. Press the adhesive sections of tape along the sides of the root gap to
the base metal.

(Figure 1) 5. Continue applying the Fiback™ over the weld joint making sure the
fiberglass strip remains centered over the weld joint. Remember to
peel the release liner from the aluminum tape while progressing along
the weld joint. This procedure ensures the adhesive on the aluminum
tape is free from debris and foreign matter.

6. After Fiback™ has been applied to the entire length of the metals
being joined, press outer edges with adhesive down to create an air
tight seal between the tape and the base metal. (Figure 2)

7. Begin welding the desired seam.

(Figure 2)
Welding the Although welding can be successfully completed in any position and
using any process (GTAW, GMAW, SAW, FCAW and SMAW), the
Root Gap FLAT and HORIZONTAL positions are the most widely used welding
with Fiback™ processes with GMAW (MIG).

The type of welding progression used is typically determined by the

individual welder’s skill and the environment. To obtain maximum weld
penetration (Figure 3 and 4), forehand welding progression is often the
best method and used often. However, any weld progression may
be utilized.

Before beginning the welding process, refer to Section 6, Welding

Specifications, Parameters and Test Results for Fiback™, to obtain
(Figure 3) guidelines for use with various metal grades, thicknesses, and welding
machine settings.

During Welding
1. Be certain to use a welding procedure that will enable a “keyhole
effect” to be obtained in the root gap. The keyhole effect is achieved
by moving at a travel speed that will allow the weld puddle to fill the
root gap to the top of the base metal without exceeding 1/8 inch
(3.2 mm) weld reinforcement.

2. For thicker base metals, where beveling is necessary, leave a “root

(Figure 4)
face” so the initial weld (known as the “root weld”) can be applied
using the keyhole process.

3. Welders can finish welding the groove with the needed amount of
weld passes to achieve a maximum quality weld with no more than
1/8 inch (3.2 mm) weld reinforcement.

After Welding
When welding is complete, allow the unit or part to completely cool
before removing the Fiback™ Fiberglass Backing Tape. Once the weld
zone has sufficiently cooled, the tape can be removed, revealing 100%
weld penetration.

Upon removal of Fiback™, if any residue remains, it may be in the form

of a small, black glassy coating on the root penetration. This is easily
removed and in no way compromises the quality or strength of the
welded piece. In stainless steel applications, this coating will not reduce
corrosion resistance or change the chemical composition of the metal.

Any residual residue can be easily removed with an abrasive cloth such
as Aquasol’s EZ Wipes®.
Welding Below are general welding machine settings (volts, amps, wire feed
speed, travel/progression speed) associated with the most commonly
Specifications, used welding processes for Fiback™. These processes have proven to
Parameters and obtain 100% weld penetration.
Test Results 1. Configuration A
for Fiback™ »»Welding Process: MIG (Short Circuit Transfer)
»»Steel Grade: A36, 1/8 – 3/8 inch (3.2 – 9.5 mm) Thick
»»VOLTS: 17 – 22
»»AMPS: 200 – 250
»»Wire Feed Speed: 250 – 325 Inches Per Minute (IPM)
»»Gas Composition: 100% CO2 or 75%/25% Argon/CO2 Mix
»»Root Gap: 1/16 – 1/4 inch (1.6 – 6.4 mm)
»»Filler Metal Diameter Minimum Size: .035 - .045 MAX
2. Configuration B
»»Welding Process: MIG (Short Circuit Transfer)
»»Steel Grade: 300 SS (Austenitic), 1/8 – 3/8 inch
(3.2 – 9.5 mm) Thick
»»VOLTS: 18 – 23
»»AMPS: 225 – 300
»»Wire Feed Speed: 275 – 350 IPM
»»Gas Composition: Tri-Mix, 60%/38%/2% Argon/Helium/CO2
»»Root Gap: 1/16 – 1/4 inch (1.6 – 6.4 mm)
»»Filler Metal Diameter Minimum Size: .035 - .045 MAX
3. Configuration C
»»Welding Process: Spray Arc Transfer
»»Steel Grade: 308 SS
»»VOLTS: 23 – 28
»»AMPS: 300 – 450
»»Wire Feed Speed: 310 – 400 IPM
»»Gas Composition: At least 90%/10% Argon/CO2 or O2 Mix
»»Root Gap: 1/16 – 1/4 inch (1.6 – 6.4 mm)
»»Filler Metal Diameter Minimum Size: .035 - .052 MAX
Welding 4. Configuration D
»»Welding Process: Spray Arc Transfer
Specifications, »»Steel Grade: 308 SS
Parameters and »»VOLTS: 24 – 30
Test Results »»AMPS: 375 – 550
for Fiback™ »»Wire Feed Speed: 280 – 410 IPM
»»Gas Composition: 98%/2% Argon/Oxygen Mix
»»Root Gap: 1/16 – 1/4 inch (1.6 – 6.4 mm)
»»Filler Metal Diameter Minimum Size: .035 - .052 MAX
5. Configuration E
»»Welding Process: AMAW (stick)
»»Steel Grade: A36 carbon steel
»»AMPS: 75 – 100
»»Root Gap: 1/16 – 1/4 inch (1.6 – 6.4 mm)
»»Electrode Diameter: 1/8 – 3/16 inch (3.2 – 4.8 mm)
»»Electrode Class: E7018 low hydrogen
Material Safety Chemical Product and Company Identification
Data Sheet Common Trade Names: Fiback™ Fiberglass Weld Backing Tape

(MSDS) Chemical Product Name: Aluminum foil

Acrylic adhesive
Fiback™ Fiberglass filament Release liner
Fiberglass Weld Date Prepared: 7/19/2010
Backing Tape
Description: Metallic 2.5 inch or 4.0 inch, 3.0 mil (76
micron) thick, aluminum foil adhesive weld
backing tape, with a 1.125 or 1.5 inch
strip of woven filament fiberglass
running down the center. Fiberglass
composed of oxides of silicon, aluminum,
calcium, boron and magnesium, fused in
an amorphous vitreous state.

Product Identifier: Fiback™ Tape 4.0

Fiback™ Tape 2.5

Product Code: AFBT-4.0

AFBT-2.5

Physical Data
Fiberglass Material

Melting Point (Softening): 800°C

Boiling Point: N/A

Percent Volatile: N/A

Vapor Density: N/A

Specific gravity (bare Glass): 2.6

Solubility in Water: Insoluble

Vapor Pressure: N/A

Evaporation Rate: N/A

Appearance and Odor: White to white fibers bound together in

strands, having no odor
Material Safety Physical Data Cont.
Data Sheet Fiberglass Material Cont.

(MSDS) pH: N/A

Fiback™ Fiber Diameter: The filaments have diameters in the range

6 to 25 microns, depending upon product
Fiberglass Weld type and are well above the maximum
Backing Tape size considered to be respirable (approx
3.5 microns). They will not subdivide into
fibers of smaller diameters.

Aluminum and Adhesive

State: Foil with adhesive on white liner

Color: Silver

Volatility
Fiberglass Material

Percent Volatile: N/A

Aluminum and Adhesive

Percent Volatile: Wet chopped strands: 10% (Max. Water);

Mat: 6.5% (Max); all others: 25 (Max)

Fire and Explosion Data

Flash Point: Non-burning

Auto Ignition Temperature: N/A

Flammable Limits: N/A

Extinguishing Media: Water, foam, CO2 or dry chemical

Special Fire In a sustained fire, self-contained

Fighting Procedures: breathing apparatus should be worn

Unusual Fire and Not applicable

Explosion Hazards:
Material Safety Health Hazard Data
Data Sheet Primary Route(s) of Entry: Inhalation and skin contact

(MSDS) Symptoms of Overexposure: Rash, itching, conjunctivitis,

coughing, sneezing
Fiback™
Health Hazards (Acute) Exposure to continuous filament glass
Fiberglass Weld fibers sometimes causes irritation of the
Backing Tape skin and less frequently, irritation of the
eyes, nose or throat

Ingestion: Temporary mechanical irritations of the

digestive tract

Chronic: There is no known health effects

associated with chronic exposure to
this product

Carcinogenic Assessment: No components of this material have

been identified as known carcinogens

Hazardous Ingredients: ACGIH IARC NTP OSHA

(Fiberglass Continuous No No No No
Filament)

Emergency and First Aid Procedures

Eye Contact: If irritation occurs, flush eyes with clear
water for at least 15 minutes

Skin Contact: If irritation occurs, rinse contacted areas

with room temperature to cool water,
then wash gently with mild soap.
Do not rub or scratch. If glass
fiber becomes emdedded, seek
medical attention

Ingestion: Observe individual. If symptoms develop,

consult a physician

Inhalation: Move individual to fresh air. Seek medical

attention if irritation persists
Material Safety Reactivity Data
Data Sheet Stability: Stable

(MSDS) Conditions to Avoid: Fiberglass: None

Fiback™ Adhesive: Avoid contact with strong

alkalies, strong mineral acids, and strong
Fiberglass Weld oxidizing agents
Backing Tape
Incompatability: None

Hazards Products Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and

of Combustion: various hydrocarbons may form

Hazardous Polymerization: None

Hazardous Decomposition Products

Hazards Decomposition In a sustained fire, fiberglass sizings or
Products: binders may decompose

Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur

Conditions to Avoid: None

Spill or Leak Procedures

If released or spilled: For dusts and fibers generated during
fabrication, vacuum up and contain

Waste disposal method: Dispose of in accordance with

appropriate Government regulations

Special Protection Information

Respiratory Protection: Use respiratory in accordance with your
company’s respiratory protection program
and OSHA regulations under 29 CFR
1910.134

Protective Gloves: May reduce skin irritation in

some operations

Eye Protection: Safety glasses with side shields should

be worn whenever fiberglass materials
are handled
Material Safety Handling and Storing
Data Sheet Ventilation: General dilution ventilation and/or local
exhaust ventilation should be
(MSDS) provided as necessary
Fiback™ Storage: For optimum performance, fiberglass
Fiberglass Weld products should be stored at a
Backing Tape temperature of less than 77°F and relative
humidity of less than 65%

Work/Hygienic: Handle in accordance with good industrial

hygiene and safety practices

Avoid unnecessary exposure to dust

and fibers

Remove fibers from skin after exposure

Used vacuum equipment only to remove

fibers, no compressed air as compressed
air tends to make the fibers air born

The information contained herein is based on data considered accurate.

However, to warranty is expressed or implied regarding the accuracy of
this data or the results to be obtained from the use thereof. Information
in Section 15, Regulatory Information, is intended to be as complete as
possible. It is ultimately the user’s responsibility, however, to determine
state, and local laws in the use of this product. Aquasol assumes no
responsibility for personal injury or property damage to vendors, users,
or third parties caused by the material. Such vendors or users assume all
risks associated with the use of the material.
Other Aquasol ®
Fiback™ compliments the Aquasol product line, which consists of:

Products Aquasol® Water-Soluble Paper and Tape are used to dam Argon or
Helium gases during TIG welding of Steel or Aluminum pipes, dissolving
effortlessly by flushing the system with water or steam. Available in sheet
or roll format, this item allows you to construct a purge of any size.

EZ Purge® is a pre-formed, self-adhesive water soluble purge dam

that eliminates the need to construct a dam, saving countless hours in
preparation and set up enabling the project to get ahead of schedule.
The uniquely engineered and patented design is practical yet fabricated
in a sophisticated and deliberate manner to maximize gas retention.
Made of sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, wooden pulp and other
water soluble polymeric composites and laminates, EZ Purge®
dissolves instantaneously and completely in most liquids and is 100%
biodegradable. EZ Purge® is available in sizes from 2" (51 mm) to 72"
(1829 mm).

EZ Zone® Tape is used to seal the root gap between pipes, but in a
most innovative way! The aluminum tape is composed of two adhesive
areas on the outside edges, with an adhesive-free center “Zone.” The
adhesive edges stick to the area surrounding the root gap on stainless
steel and aluminum pipes with the adhesive free “zone” being placed
over the weld. The adhesive never comes in contact with the pipe as it
is welded, creating a clean, contaminant-free weld. EZ Zone® Tape is
available in two sizes 2.5" (64 mm) and 4.0" (102 mm) widths.

EZ Tape® is fully coated with adhesive and can be used to seal pipe
ends for purging or transporting as well as other conventional uses in the
field. This product is available in 2" (51 mm) width only.

EZ Wipes® are multi-purpose, saturated cleaning wipes that remove a

variety of contaminants such as markers, oils, and heavy grease from a
myriad of surfaces, including pipes. EZ Wipes® usefulness also extends
beyond traditional pipe preparation. They can be used on machine parts,
tools, bench top areas, toolboxes, vinyl surfaces, fab shop equipment,
and other metal surfaces.
Other Aquasol ®
SoluGap™ is the only patent-pending water soluble socket weld spacer
ring providing a 1/16" minimum gap required by ANSI 31.1, Section III,
Products ASME, US Navy & Military codes. Compatible with any metal, SoluGap™
diameter sizes range from 0.5" (20 mm) to 2.5" (73 mm).

OX™-100X is a battery powered, self-calibrating, handheld digital oxygen

analyzer with an internal pump. It measures oxygen concentration with
0.01% (100 ppm) resolution.

SoluShim™ Water Soluble Alignment Sticks provide welders with a

precise root gap as required by AWS codes D1.1 through D1.6, and API
1101 pipe codes. SoluShim™ is available in four different thicknesses
of 1/32" (0.7 mm), 1/16" (1.6 mm), 3/32" (2.0 mm) and 1/8" (3.2 mm).
SoluShim™ measures 3/8" (9.5mm) width and 4" (101 mm) in length.
Custom sizes are available upon request.

For more information on any of these products, visit our website at

www.aquasolcorporation.com or send your inquiry to
[email protected] or call 716.564.8888.

80 Thompson Street
N. Tonawanda, NY 14120 USA
1.800.564.WELD (9353)
Phone: 716.564.8888
Fax: 716.564.8889
Email: [email protected]
www.aquasolcorporation.com