2026 INTRODUCTION TO SHIELDED METAL ARC WELDING (SMAW)
QUESTIONS WITH CORRECT & VERIFIED ANSWERS GRADED TO
PASS
The force of the arc digs into the workpiece and provides the necessary
depth of _______________ for the weld.
Flux
Covers the SMAW Electrode
Electrodes
Core of solid metal wire or a metal tube containing metal powder. The core
conducts the current to the arc and also provides filler metal for the weld
joint.
Filler
Is deposited as the electrode is gradually consumed and the welder moves
the arc over the workpiece (at the correct arc length and travel speed)
Coating (Flux)
Helps keep the arc stable and concentrated. As the chemicals in the
coating are vaporized they provide shielding required to protect the molten
metal from contamination by atmosphere.
Power Source
May supply either DC or AC and have controls so the current can be varied
in order to meet the requirements of different welding tasks, materials and
positions.
Arc Welding Station
Arc Welding Machine
Arc Welding Station
Workbench
Arc Welding Station
Electrode holder
Arc Welding Station
Page 1 of 22
,Stool
Arc Welding Station
Booth or screen
Arc Welding Station
Work cable and terminals
Arc Welding Station
Ventilation
Arc Welding Station
Ground Clamp
Welding Station Inspection
1. Ensure welding machine is turned off before proceeding
Welding Station Inspection
2. Inspect all cables and make sure they are free from damage.
Welding Station Inspection
3. Use channel iron to over cables that have to run across aisle-ways.
Wheeled machines such as forklifts and pallet movers can easily damage
cables.
Welding Station Inspection
4. Check the electrode holder assembly carefully to ensure that:
•The cable is fastened securely in the holder
•The holder insulation is in good condition
•The holder jaws are clean to ensure good electrical contact with the
electrode.
Welding Station Inspection
5. Check that the connection between the work cable and the workbench is
secure and not loose or dirty.
Welding Station Inspection
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, 6. Check that the booth curtains. walls or temporary screens are free from
holes that might expose others to arc flash.
Welding Station Inspection
7. Check the ventilation system is working, has no leaks and that the
ventilation pickup duct is placed so that the fumes are removed before they
reach the welders face.
Welding Station Inspection
8. Ensure that there is an insulated hook hangard to hang the electrode
holder on when it is not in use.
Welding Station Inspection
To be done before starting any work.
Electric shock
Current in SMAW can shock and kill you or cause you to fall from a high
place making it very dangerous
Damp ground
One of the chief contributing factors to electrical shock (fatal or otherwise)
Ensure clothing and gloves are dry and never stand in water or on a wet
surface. Use a rubber mat or dry board to stand on.
Find a dry board or rubber mat to stand on in wet conditions.
Treatment for Shock Victims
Remove them from contact with the power source asap. Do not touch them
while they are still in contact with the power source.
•Switch of power
•Disconnect the circuit
•Send Someone to disconnect the power source and send for medical help.
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QUESTIONS WITH CORRECT & VERIFIED ANSWERS GRADED TO
PASS
The force of the arc digs into the workpiece and provides the necessary
depth of _______________ for the weld.
Flux
Covers the SMAW Electrode
Electrodes
Core of solid metal wire or a metal tube containing metal powder. The core
conducts the current to the arc and also provides filler metal for the weld
joint.
Filler
Is deposited as the electrode is gradually consumed and the welder moves
the arc over the workpiece (at the correct arc length and travel speed)
Coating (Flux)
Helps keep the arc stable and concentrated. As the chemicals in the
coating are vaporized they provide shielding required to protect the molten
metal from contamination by atmosphere.
Power Source
May supply either DC or AC and have controls so the current can be varied
in order to meet the requirements of different welding tasks, materials and
positions.
Arc Welding Station
Arc Welding Machine
Arc Welding Station
Workbench
Arc Welding Station
Electrode holder
Arc Welding Station
Page 1 of 22
,Stool
Arc Welding Station
Booth or screen
Arc Welding Station
Work cable and terminals
Arc Welding Station
Ventilation
Arc Welding Station
Ground Clamp
Welding Station Inspection
1. Ensure welding machine is turned off before proceeding
Welding Station Inspection
2. Inspect all cables and make sure they are free from damage.
Welding Station Inspection
3. Use channel iron to over cables that have to run across aisle-ways.
Wheeled machines such as forklifts and pallet movers can easily damage
cables.
Welding Station Inspection
4. Check the electrode holder assembly carefully to ensure that:
•The cable is fastened securely in the holder
•The holder insulation is in good condition
•The holder jaws are clean to ensure good electrical contact with the
electrode.
Welding Station Inspection
5. Check that the connection between the work cable and the workbench is
secure and not loose or dirty.
Welding Station Inspection
Page 2 of 22
, 6. Check that the booth curtains. walls or temporary screens are free from
holes that might expose others to arc flash.
Welding Station Inspection
7. Check the ventilation system is working, has no leaks and that the
ventilation pickup duct is placed so that the fumes are removed before they
reach the welders face.
Welding Station Inspection
8. Ensure that there is an insulated hook hangard to hang the electrode
holder on when it is not in use.
Welding Station Inspection
To be done before starting any work.
Electric shock
Current in SMAW can shock and kill you or cause you to fall from a high
place making it very dangerous
Damp ground
One of the chief contributing factors to electrical shock (fatal or otherwise)
Ensure clothing and gloves are dry and never stand in water or on a wet
surface. Use a rubber mat or dry board to stand on.
Find a dry board or rubber mat to stand on in wet conditions.
Treatment for Shock Victims
Remove them from contact with the power source asap. Do not touch them
while they are still in contact with the power source.
•Switch of power
•Disconnect the circuit
•Send Someone to disconnect the power source and send for medical help.
Page 3 of 22
