What Is Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)?

Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) is known commonly by several other names, including manual metal arc welding, flux-shielded arc welding, and stick welding. This welding process utilizes a consumable electrode coated in flux to join metals together. It was developed between the 19th and 20th century, eventually becoming the technique we know today.

SMAW or stick welding is the most commonly used welding technique, and for good reason, as it is very versatile in its execution and application. No matter the environment, positioning, specific metals, industry or custom fabrication requirements, shielded metal arc welding can usually be used to great success. SMAW is one of the original forms of welding, but users and producers are always finding new ways to increase efficiency and advance available technology.

How Does Shielded Metal Arc Welding Work?

This manual arc welding process makes use of a consumable electrode that is coated in flux. The electrode is a metal rod, or stick, hence the common name, stick welding. Electricity is conducted through the electrode via wires and leads, and then makes contact with the base metal to which the weld is being applied. The heat generated by the electric arc melts part of the electrode and base metal, welding them together. This arc can reach temperatures higher than 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit. As the flux burns, oxygen is consumed, resulting in a carbon dioxide shield that protects the base metal from oxidation and corrosion. This protective shield allows for SMAW to safely and effectively be done outdoors.

SMAW voltage is a key variable in this form of arc welding, and it is controlled manually, by moving the stick, or electrode, either closer to or farther away from the workpiece. Constant current power and reverse polarity are generally used. Basic tools used for shielded metal arc welding include the machine itself, various cables and cable connectors, the electrode holder, ground clamp, and chipping hammer. And of course, the welder wears various pieces of protective gear. Different types of electrodes are used, depending on the metals being welded.

What Is Shielded Metal Arc Welding Used For?

Because of its inherent versatility, SMAW can be used in conjunction with a variety of metals of various widths, including industrial applications using iron, steel, carbon steel and cast iron, alloy steels, and nickel alloys. Some industries that make regular use of SMAW include:

• General construction
• Oil and gas
• Shipbuilding
• Marine construction
• Agriculture machinery

While SMAW can be done indoors, it is highly portable and so can also be done outdoors, and is even done on the water. Other advantages of SMAW include the affordability of needed equipment, easy transport of materials, and the built-in protective gas shield that makes it possible to weld even in windy and otherwise inhospitable conditions while also giving the welder more freedom of movement.

However, because SMAW is a manual process, one downside can be lower productivity when compared with automated welding processes. It can also be messier than other welding techniques, splattering a byproduct called slag and so requiring cleanup afterward. There are also some materials that cannot be welded using this technique, due to their low melting points and the extreme temperatures reached during the SMAW process. These metals include lead, tin, zinc, and their alloys.

Though shielded metal arc welding is a common and old form of welding, it still requires a specific set of skills, honed over time, to master the technique. When done by a professional, SMAW results in both safely and effectively rendering strong welds.

Custom Fabrication And Welding Services In Cleveland, Ohio

At M&M Certified Welding, our team of expert welders have extensive experience in all forms of welding. We work with companies from various industries, and are happy to provide you with a free quote for your next custom fabrication project, truck body fabrication requirements, or mobile welding needs. Get in touch with us to learn more about our welding services in Cleveland.