Welding is the amazing art of literally taking two pieces of metal and fusing or melting them together until they are one unit. Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW or Stick welding)One of the oldest and most tried-and-true welding processes is the Shielded Metal Arc Welding Get started with welding using a basic guide that focuses on Stick welding.
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The Step By Step Process of Stick or SMAW Welding[++imwheel.html++]Stick welding is the most common form of arc welding and it is also known as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) +:+ stick weld diagramThe reason everyone uses it, even though it has long drooped globs of metal flying in all directions, tiny pinholes could end up anywhere and spatter to high heck is because it works.
SMAW: The Basics & Foundational Concepts
In SMAW the electric current causes an arc that is focused which melts the base metal and the filler material, both of them will then cool to merge. At the core of SMAW is a consumable electrode-a coated metal rod that does double duty:
Electrical Conduction: Which means it acts as a contactor to allow the electrical arc to flow from the welding machine.
Filler Metal: The electrode continues to melt and consume away, laying down molten metal into the weld pool that forms the weld joint.
This magic is all in the coating, more that of flux to be precise. This flux serves several very important features:
Shielding Gas: As welding takes place, the flux decomposes with the heat of the arc and releases a shielding gas which protects the molten weld from atmospheric hazards such as oxygen or nitrogen. These glasses degrade the weld and make it more prone to cracks.
Deoxidizer: There are elements in the flux that aid in removing scale from the puddle. During the welding, atmospheric oxygen reacts with the hot metal and oxides form, which can weaken the weld.
Even More Stable Arc: Additionally, the flux also stabilizes the arc further to control and have a consistent weldERCHANTABILITYPages:As the flux cools down, it forms a slag layer above the weld. The slag shields the welded area from contaminants and results in some buildup on it, though chippers are needed for removing the excess slag after each weld passes.
The Essential Gear for SMAW
When firing up the SMAW, you will need a few things to do so.
Welding Machine – The heart of your setup, the welding machine gives you the required arc by providing electrical current. A DC (Direct Current) electrode welding machine is usually used for SMAW.
Electrode Holder – holds the electrode tightly and gives electrical insulation to the welder
Type of Electrodes: Electrodes are made in diameter and coating are specified by the applications and base metals. It is obvious that choosing the right electrode for your work will definitely go a long way in ensuring a great welding experience.
Ground Clamp – A vital safety element, the ground clamp creates a path back to the welding circuit for the current.
Safety Gear: The most important thing is safety so you need to protect yourself. To protect yourself against fumes, purchase a welding helmet appropriate for the shade required by the electrodes you select, some welding gloves & fire-resistant clothing.
The Beginners Guide to SMAW
Preparation:The location to be welded must be cleaned adequately, any dirt paint or rust will affect the quality of the weld; Securely clamp your workpiece to a stable work surface.
Choose electrode size and type based on material thickness and weld characteristics sought.
Setting Up the Machine: Reference your welding machine’s manual for specific instructions. In general, moxibustion or lightweight weight can be used to adjust the current.
Arc Strikes: Use the electrode holder at an angle, and then lightly tap the end of the electrode with a workpiece to create the arc. Quickly remove retraction of the electrode to keep an even sa tempoh atau ilang arc_typeDefinition( defined terms singkat)
A Pool of Wax: if you move the electrode along the joint – what actually happens if that is where the base weld pool is will melt and form molten puddles on top of base metal. Hold the electrode at a slight drag angle (i.e., in the direction of welding) to help pool and place the rod.
Travel Speed – This is the rate at which you progress the electrode and it is important. This creates a slow or fast travel speed which will form a narrow deep weld or a wide shallow weld.
Lift The Rod: As soon as the weld is complete, lift the electrode to break the arc. After the weld is done, give it a few seconds to cool and then use a chipping hammer to chip away at the slag.
SMAW Applications : The Versatile Workhorse
The versatility of SMAW has made it a popular choice in industries across the board. There are a lot of uses:
Construction: Stick welding is ideal for connecting structural steel in the construction of buildings and bridges, heavy mills, or your home at this moment.
Welded Installations: Not only used for metal-based repairs, but also essential for tacking on customer designs as well.
