Chapter 8 Knowledge Check

Chapter 8

Quiz yourself using the following chapter review questions to check how well you can recall the material.

Review Questions

1. Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is also often called .              welding.
2. True or False: SMAW is often replaced by faster, more efficient welding processes in high-production environments.
3. The workpiece lead in SMAW is often called the .                       .
4. What is the role of deoxidizers in the SMAW process?
   1. To help the flux maintain its shape.
   2. To create additional heat for the arc.
   3. To reduce contamination in the weld by binding with impurities.
   4. To prevent the electrode from melting too quickly.
5. True or False: All electrical connections in a welding system should be tight to avoid excess heat buildup.
6. What is the meaning of the prefix “E” in the SMAW electrode classification system? .                             
7. Why must E7018 electrodes be stored in a rod oven?
   1. To protect them from handling damage.
   2. To keep them from corroding.
   3. To maintain proper arc characteristics.
   4. To prevent contamination by moisture/hydrogen.
8. What is the purpose of making test runs along the joint before welding?
   1. To ensure the arc stays stable.
   2. To heat the base metal.
   3. To check the position and movement.
   4. To adjust the amperage.
9. What action helps prevent the electrode from sticking when starting the arc?
   1. Applying a lot of pressure.
   2. Holding the electrode far away from the metal.
   3. Holding the electrode at a steep angle.
   4. Lightly scratching or tapping the electrode on the metal.
10. True or False: A shorter arc length results in a cooler and less fluid weld pool.

Answer Key

1. Stick. SMAW is often called stick welding because the electrodes are in the form of rods or “sticks.”
2. True.  SMAW has some drawbacks that make other welding processes more useful in manufacturing requiring high production.
3. Ground lead/work lead. It is helpful to know a variety of slang terms for equipment, as many people use different terms and may use them interchangeably.
4. To reduce contamination in the weld by binding with impurities.
5. True. Loose connections in either the power supply or the welding leads, electrode holder, or workplace clamp can cause electrical resistance, resulting in enough heat to be hazardous.
6. Electrode. The “E” identifies the rod as being an electrode as well as a filler metal. Not all filler metals are also electrodes.
7. To prevent contamination by moisture/hydrogen. Welds contaminated with hydrogen may experience cracking after cooling. These cracks may even be under the surface of the weld, and undetectable with the naked eye.
8. To check the position and movement. Making a test run before welding ensures you can comfortably make the entire weld successfully.
9. Lightly scratching or tapping the electrode on the metal. Striking an arc requires  practice, and these techniques will help ensure consistent success.
10. True. While it may seem counter-intuitive, a shorter arc length (holding the rod closer to the pool) actually cools the pool.