SMAW Welding (Stick)
Step One
Ensure you have all the safety equipment needed at hand, (Gloves, Helmet, Leather Coat) and that the helmet lens is working properly.
Test this when striking the first arc, confirming that the lens darkens. If it does not bring the mask to the instructor immediately.
Step Two
Make sure your equipment is set up and working properly.
Ensure that your welder is plugged in and grounded properly, ideally to the work piece. Also ensure there are several welding sticks so that you are not frequently interrupted.
You should also ensure you have a slag hammer on hand.
Once you have ALL of your safety equipment on and your welder is set up properly (for settings refer to charts or ask the instructor) you typically need to grind the item you are welding, get it down to bare steel. This is one of the most important steps of the whole process so you’re going to want to make sure you take your time on it and do it right. Welders are grinders who do a bit of welding now and then.
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Step Three
Strike the arc by dragging/scratching the electrode on the work piece then quickly pulling it about a 1/4 inch (6mm) above the work piece. Once the arc is initiated move in small circles along the joint line at about 1 inch every 6 - 8 seconds. Once the bead is complete strike the slag with a slag hammer. Leave the work piece to cool with a "Hot Work" sign on top of it.
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