Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), also known by other names such as Manual Metal Arc Welding (MMAW), Covered Electrode Welding, Stick Electrode Welding, Electric Arc Welding, and Process 111 Welding (MMA).

Flux-Cored Welding Rod (Flux)

Examples of welding rods (AWS A5.1) include E6010, E6011, E6013, E7016, E7018, with rod sizes ranging from 1.6 mm to 8.0 mm.

Example of Welding Current Settings:

1. E6013, 3.2 mm = 80 - 130 A.
2. E7016, 3.2 mm = 100 - 150 A.

Electrode Holder

The electrode holder is used to securely grip the welding rod. The internal material is a good conductor of electricity, making it convenient to handle, strong, durable, and resistant to heat. The handle is insulated to prevent electrical leakage, is lightweight, and allows for easy control of the welding wire feed.

Welding Machine

It is a Constant Current (CC) type, used to produce welding current in AC, DCEN, and DCEP types. The welding machines are available in various forms, including Transformers-AC, Rectifiers-DC, Converters (Generator-DC & Alternator-AC), Solid State Diodes, Silicon-Controlled Rectifiers (Thyristor), Transistors, and Solid-State Inverters.

Welding Cable

When using a welding machine with a 300 Amp current and a 60% duty cycle, for cable lengths of 10 to 50 meters, copper welding cables of AWG size 1/0 should be used. If aluminum cables are used, AWG size 2/0 is recommended.

Ground Clamp

The ground clamp is used to attach the welding cable to the workpiece. It must be durable enough to withstand high current and conduct electricity efficiently.

Quality of SMAW Welds The quality of the welds made using SMAW is categorized as follows:

1. A = Proper current, arc length, and welding speed.
2. B = Current too low.
3. C = Current too high.
4. D = Arc length too short.
5. E = Arc length too long.
6. F = Welding speed too slow.
7. G = Welding speed too fast.

Base Metals Commonly Welded Using SMAW:

1. Carbon Steel Plates (ASTM A-36)
2. Seamless Carbon Steel Pipes (ASTM A-53)
3. Seamless Carbon Steel Pipes for High Temperature (ASTM A-106)
4. Low- and Medium-Pressure Carbon Steel Plates (ASTM A-516)
5. Low-Alloy Structural Steel Plates (Columbium-Vanadium) for High Tensile Strength (ASTM A-572)
6. Stainless Steel Plates (Chromium and Chromium-Nickel) for High Pressure and Heat Resistance (ASTM A-240)
7. Austenitic Stainless Steel Pipes for Welding (ASTM A-312)

On behalf of Worachart Group, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Teacher Thares Taping for generously sharing valuable knowledge, which will be beneficial to those who wish to continue their studies in the future.