456A SMAW Stick 2

Question 1

What is the recommended arc length for general SMAW welding?

Accepted Answer

Approximately equal to the diameter of the electrode core wire

Answer

As long as possible for better visibility

Answer

At least 25 mm (1 inch) from the workpiece

Answer

Zero — the electrode should always touch the workpiece

Question 2

What causes porosity in a SMAW weld?

Accepted Answer

Gas entrapment from moisture in electrodes, contaminated base metal, too long an arc length, or wind blowing away shielding gas

Answer

Using too high an amperage

Answer

Using too small an electrode

Answer

Welding too slowly

Question 3

When welding in the vertical-up position with E7018, what technique is commonly used?

Accepted Answer

A weave pattern (triangle, J, or zigzag) with pauses at the toes to allow proper fusion and build-up, using lower amperage than flat position

Answer

A fast straight-line drag technique

Answer

The same technique as flat position with no modifications

Answer

A downhill technique at maximum amperage

Question 4

What is undercutting in a weld and what causes it?

Accepted Answer

A groove melted into the base metal at the toe of the weld that is not filled by weld metal; caused by excessive amperage, incorrect angle, or excessive travel speed

Answer

Weld metal that extends below the root of the joint

Answer

Excess weld metal on top of the joint

Answer

A crack running parallel to the weld

Question 5

What determines the correct amperage setting for a SMAW electrode?

Accepted Answer

The electrode diameter, type, position, and joint design — manufacturers provide recommended ranges for each electrode size

Answer

Only the thickness of the base metal

Answer

The length of the welding lead

Answer

Only the welder's personal preference

Question 6

What is slag inclusion and how is it prevented?

Accepted Answer

Non-metallic material trapped within or between weld passes; prevented by thorough interpass slag removal, proper electrode angle, and adequate amperage

Answer

Slag floating on top of the weld — a normal condition

Answer

A type of surface rust on the weld

Answer

Excess flux remaining on the electrode