In the fabrication industry, stick welding is commonly known as shielded metal arc welding or manual metal arc welding. This process of welding is shielded from atmospheric contamination. During the welding process, a welding power supply current is used to make an electric arc which joins the metals. The electrode melts along with the main workpiece to form a weld pool. This eventually cools off and forms a joint. While the weld is being laid, the flux cover disintegrates to vapors which provide both, a shielding gas and slag which help in protecting the metals from atmospheric contamination.
Stick welding is considered by welding and fabrication companies for heavy steel structures. Like any other welding types, stick welding also needs to be done with precision for the best results. For this purpose, all you need to do is know your C-L-A-M-S points well. Here are the C-L-A-M-S points discussed in detail.
Current Setting
The type of electrode that you select for your welding determines the amperage for your machine. Based on the electrode, your machine could be set up in AC, DC negative or DC positive mode. Keep in mind, 10 percent more penetration is given by DC positive electrode as compared to AC. DC negative is good to weld thin metals. So choose appropriately as per your application. Also, setting the amperage too low can stick the electrode when the arc is struck and setting it too high can cause the slag to be excessively fluid. Excessive heat can also compromise the flux. Therefore, you need to be very careful when setting your current.
Length of Arc
Having the correct length of the arc is highly crucial to get the perfect weld. A common rule to follow when selecting the length of an arc is to make sure that is does not exceed the diameter of the core of the electrode. Do not simply use a longer arc for a better view of the puddle. A longer arc can cause spatter, undercuts and there is a risk of porosity too. Instead of choosing a longer arc, position yourself in a better view angle.
Angle of Travel
Stick welding commonly uses the ‘drag’ or ‘backhand’ welding technique when the weld is flat, horizontal or in the overhead position. Holding the electrode at a perpendicular angle to the weld joint is the best technique. This helps in tilting the top in the direction of travel from 5 to 15 degrees. You should make use of the forehand technique when welding vertically upwards. This tilts the electrode up to 15 degrees away from the direction of travel.
Manipulation of Electrode
Each welder manipulates the electrode as per his application style. This is something you learn through practice over a period of time. You could also observe how other welders do it to get a better idea. Do keep in mind, for thinner metals, weaving the electrode is not necessary as a straight bead is sufficient. For thicker metals, wider beads are needed, which can be created by moving the electrode from side to side. This movement will produce a series of partially overlapping circles in a ‘Z’, stutter-step or semi-circle pattern. The side to side movement will not work for a wider area, and you might need to use stringer beads instead.
Speed of Travel
The speed of travel is crucial to get the welding done properly. It should allow you to keep the arc within the top one-third of the weld pool. If it is too fast, the penetration will decrease causing the weld to be recessed, and if it is too slow, there will be little penetration with the formation of a convex bead, which will not join the metals properly.
Knowing your C-L-A-M-S points is a must to get the best stick welding done. While it may seem like a separate task to remember it while welding, with practice you will only get better with this process. However, it’s highly recommended that you hire an expert to prevent any damage or accidents. Therefore, if you want your welding process done well, then get in touch with one of the best welding and fabrication companies in Alberta.
