SMAW PROCESS

SMAW 

 (Sheilded metal arc welding)

The SMAW process is an arc welding process which produces coalescence of metal by
heating them with an arc between a covered metal electrode and the work. Sheilding is
obtained from decomposition of the electrode covering. Pressure is not used. Filler metal
is obtained from the electrode (ANSI/AWS A3.0, Welding Terms and Definitions).



Typical SMAW setup 

1.  Welding power source (suitable for work to be performed)
2.  Length of suitable welding cable
3.  Length of suitable ground cable
4.  Suitable electrode holder
5.  Suitable ground clamp
6.  Covered electrode (matched to base metal)
7.  Welding helmet and protective equipment

Electrode

Designation of classifications : 

for mild steel covered electrodes
CSA W48.1-M
AWS A5.1

for low alloy steel covered electrodes
CSA W48.3-M
AWS A5.5

U.S. System                                                              CDN System 
Example : E6010                                                        Becomes : E41010
where E = Electrode                                                   where E = Electrode
60 = Minimum tensile stength in                                  410 = Minimum tensile strength in
        1000 psi                                                                      megapascals (MPa)
1 = Usability position*                                                1 = Usability position*
0 = Type of covering, current,                                     0 = Type of covering, current,
polarity                                                                            polarity

* 0 = All positions with excellent vertical down (V-D) features
1 = All positions except vertical down (V-D)
2 = Flat, horizontal
3 = Flat only
4 = Vertical down

Note : For full details on chemical and mechanical requirements, consult CSA Standard
W48.1-M,
W48.3-M as well as AWS A5.1 and A5.5.