Stick Welding

This process is known as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). It consists of Constant Current (CC) Machine, an electrode, electrode holder, and work lead. Stick welding is one of the original forms of welding, it is the most versatile, portable, and least overhead cost of all forms of welding. The use of SMAW as a form of welding has been around for over 100 years. This process is tried and true out in the field. It is used by farmers repairing their old rusty,painted equipment to highly skilled pipeline welders making their root pass on high pressure systems.

SMAW can be welding on multiple polarities. Direct Current Electrode Positive (DCEP) also known as DC+, this is the most popular polarity that welders operate at. The two other polarities are Direct Current Electrode Negative (DCEN) or DC- as well as Alternating Current (AC). One of the major advantages of stick welding is that a welder can

easily change out electrode types and sizes. This gives the welder a wide range of operation and flexibility when welding. SMAW electrodes are identified by their American Welding Society (AWS) Classification. Sample types are E6010, E6011,E7018,E7024..etc.

AWS Classification for SMAW Electrodes

Selecting Polarity:

When stick welding, choosing the correct polarity can be crucial. Wrong polarity may cause lack of fusion, cold lapping, excessive penetration, or burn through. It is imperative a welder read the

manufacturer specifications on which polarity is recommended.

A general rule of thumb for polarity selection is to think "where the heat is." When welding on DC+ polarity, due to the flow of electrons and ions, more heat is generated on the base material. On DC+, since more "heat" is on the base material the welder typically will get more penetration and digging action. Now, on the contrary, DC- polarity will put more "heat" on the electrode. This action will allow a faster melt off rate of the electrode and have a lessened digging action.

This is a great polarity to weld on thin material, such as sheet metal of 10 gauge or thinner.

Lastly, AC gives a good blend of the two polarities. Since an AC output oscillates between positive and negative (typically at 60 Hz in most Transformer-Rectifier machines), the user gets a good mix of penetration and melt off. Take note that not all electrodes are designed to

run on AC polarity. Since AC polarity

oscillates through the zero point electrodes need special chemicals added to keep the arc lit through that zero point. Typically, the addition of potassium helps the arc from being extinguished.

For more detailed information on SMAW check out: http://www.lincolnelectric.com/en-us/education-center/Documents/SMAWFacilitatorGuide.pdf

Always Remember to Practice Safe Welding Procedures and Protocol!

Hausen.