AWS Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) 4

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of the flux coating on a SMAW electrode?

Accepted Answer

To shield the weld pool from atmospheric contamination

Answer

The flux coating decomposes during welding to produce shielding gases and slag that protect the molten weld pool from oxygen and nitrogen contamination.

Question 2

When welding in the vertical-up position with an E7018 electrode, what technique is most commonly recommended?

Accepted Answer

Weave bead with slight pause at the toes

Answer

A weave bead with a slight pause at the toes helps control the molten pool and ensures proper fusion at the weld edges in vertical-up welding.

Question 3

Which of the following electrodes is classified as a low-hydrogen electrode?

Accepted Answer

E7018

Answer

The E7018 is a low-hydrogen electrode, indicated by the '8' suffix which denotes a low-hydrogen potassium iron powder coating.

Question 4

What condition is most likely indicated by a hissing or sputtering arc during SMAW?

Accepted Answer

Arc length that is too long

Answer

A hissing or sputtering arc typically indicates the arc length is too long, causing instability and excessive spatter.

Question 5

What is the minimum storage temperature required for low-hydrogen electrodes (E7018) after they have been removed from their original hermetically sealed container?

Accepted Answer

150°F (66°C)

Answer

AWS D1.1 requires low-hydrogen electrodes to be stored at a minimum of 250°F (121°C) in a rod oven after opening, but held at 150°F (66°C) minimum in a holding oven.

AWS Practice Test

AWS Practice Test

AWS Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) 4