Shielded Metal Arc Welding

Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) is an arc welding process, which uses a consumable flux-covered electrode to lay the weld. The flux coating disintegrates as the weld is laid, emitting vapors in the process which serve as a shield and provide a layer of slag that protects the weld area from atmospheric contamination. SMAW employs minimal equipment such as a welding power supply, an electrode with a holder, a ground clamp and welding cables. The simplicity and versatility of this process makes it suitable for welding iron and steel, nickel, aluminium and copper alloys. It is used extensively in the repair and maintenance industry, industrial fabrication and for the construction of heavy steel structures. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the theory and practice of shielded metal arc welding. It outlines the processes and applications of this welding process in detail. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.