SMAW, commonly known as stick welding, is one of the most versatile and widely used welding processes. It utilizes a consumable electrode coated in flux to join materials. It is particularly used in construction, maintenance, and repair due to its simplicity and portability.
Advantages
- Highly versatile and portable
- Works on a wide variety of metals and thicknesses
- Relatively low-cost equipment
- Works well outdoors and in windy conditions
Limitations
- Lower weld quality compared to other processes
- Produces slag that must be removed after welding
- Can be slower than other processes
Electrodes
| MATERIAL | TYPICAL ELECTRODE |
|---|---|
| CS/MS | E6010 |
| SS | E308L |
| CS#SS | E309L |
| CS#C276 (HASTELLOY) | ERNiCrMo-4 |
Equipment Cost: Low to Medium
Welding Speed: Moderate
