Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)

In shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), an electric arc is established between a flux-coated consumable rod electrode and the workpiece.  A gaseous shield is provided by vaporization of the flux coating.

Process Characteristics

Uses a consumable rod electrode
Deposits slag on the weld bead
Provides shielding by vaporization of the flux coating on the electrode
Supplies constant welding current
Weld appearance and quality depend on operator skill in maintaining a constant arc length and travel speed

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Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.