title = "Stick/SMAW Welding: Electrodes and Procedures"

content = """
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), commonly called stick welding, is a manual arc welding process using a covered (coated) consumable electrode. At Ridgecrest Metalworks, SMAW is used for heavy structural fabrication, repair welding, welding in field or outdoor conditions, and applications where the surface condition of the base metal precludes cleaner processes.

In SMAW, the arc is struck between the electrode tip and the base metal. The electrode core wire melts and is deposited as filler metal. The coating on the electrode (flux) serves multiple functions: it produces a shielding gas from combustion that protects the arc and weld pool from atmospheric contamination; it forms a slag layer over the solidifying weld bead that provides additional shielding, controls bead shape, and controls the cooling rate; it provides arc-stabilizing ionizing agents; and in some electrodes, it contains iron powder to increase deposition rate.

Electrode classification (AWS A5.1 for carbon steel): the E7018 electrode is the most common at Ridgecrest for structural carbon steel. "E" = electrode, "70" = 70 ksi minimum tensile strength, "1" = all-position capability, "8" = low-hydrogen coating with iron powder. Low-hydrogen electrodes (EXX18 series) are critical for medium and high-carbon steels, alloy steels, and thick sections to prevent hydrogen-induced cracking (underbead or cold cracking). Low-hydrogen electrodes must be kept dry: once opened, they must be stored in a rod oven at 250–300°F (120–150°C). Electrodes exposed to humidity for more than a few hours must be re-dried per the manufacturer's procedure.

Welding technique: the welder strikes the arc, maintains a consistent arc length (approximately equal to the electrode diameter), and moves the electrode at a controlled travel speed and angle. The arc length determines arc voltage—too long an arc causes porosity and spatter; too short causes sticking. Electrode angle (work angle and travel angle) affects bead profile and fusion.

Polarity: DCEP (direct current electrode positive, or reverse polarity) is used for most SMAW electrodes—it concentrates heat in the base metal and provides good penetration. DCEN (electrode negative) is used for some specialty electrodes and for thin material to reduce burn-through. AC is used for E6013 and some cellulosic electrodes.
"""

version = "0.0.1"
