SMAW Process: Striking an Arc Techniques

What is the recommended maximum width for a weave bead?

For which type of weld joint is a weave bead or multiple stringer beads recommended?

In which technique does the movement of the electrode involve side-to-side movement along the seam?

What is the recommended electrode travel angle for vertical progression welding when going up?

What is the recommended tilt for the electrode when running beads of weld metal on flat plates?

How do you establish an arc in the SMAW Process using the Scratch Start technique?

What is the correct way to restart a weld in the SMAW Process?

What action should be taken if the electrode sticks to the workpiece during the SMAW Process?

How does a large crater at the end of a weld affect the SMAW Process?

What is the purpose of the 'TAP START TECHNIQUE' in the SMAW Process?

Electrode Movement During Welding

A single stringer bead is sufficient for most narrow groove weld joints, but weave beads or multiple stringer beads are better suited for wide groove weld joints or bridging gaps.

Types of Weld Beads

Stringer bead: steady movement along the seam
Weave bead: side-to-side movement along the seam
Weave patterns can be used to cover a wide area in one pass of the electrode
Limit weave width to a maximum of 2 ½ times the diameter of the electrode

Weld Bead Techniques

Stringer technique: drag or whip
Weave technique: side-to-side movement

Welding Progression

Up progression: deeper penetration, higher deposit rate, and a 90-degree travel angle or slightly up
Down progression: faster, less penetration, less dilution, and a steep drag angle

Positioning the Electrode Holder

Hold the electrode nearly perpendicular to the work, with a slight tilt ahead in the direction of travel

Striking an Arc

Scratch start technique: scratch the electrode on the base metal like a match, then lift slightly
Tap start technique: tap the rod against the base metal, then lift slightly to start the arc

Restarting a Bead

Strike the arc, then move the electrode to the crown of the crater
Resume forward travel

Filling the Crater

Stay on the leading edge of the puddle
Use a short pause or slight back step at the end of the weld to fill the crater
Large craters can cause weld cracking

Learn about the techniques used to strike an arc in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process, including Scratch Start and Tap Start methods. Understand the steps involved in initiating the arc and troubleshooting common issues during the process.