Striking an Arc by using electrode E6013
• To begin the SMAW Process, you must first strike an arc. This can be done using one of the following techniques:
– Scratch start – scratch the electrode on the base metal like a match
– Tap Start – tap the rod against the base metal
Work Angle
• The work angle is the angle between the electrode and the work as depicted on the left
• Work angles can vary depending on the position the weld is being made in.
Travel Angle
• Also commonly called Lead Angle
• The travel (lead) angle is the angle between the electrode and the plane perpendicular to the weld axis
Arc Length
• After striking the arc, maintain a 1/8” distance between the electrode and the workpiece
– If the arc length becomes too short, the electrode will get stuck to the workpiece or ‘short out’
– If the arc length becomes too long; spatter, undercut, and porosity can occur
Travel Speed
• The travel speed is the speed at which the electrode moves along the base material while welding
– Too fast of a travel speed results in a ropey or convex weld
– Too slow of a travel speed results in a wide weld with an excessive metal deposit
– The travel speed impacts the shape of the bead.
Output product
