Process: SMAW

Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) goes by a number of names: flux shielded arc welding, manual metal arc welding (MMA or MMAW), and it’s commonly referred to as stick welding. As some of the names suggest, it’s a manual welding process that uses a consumable electrode shielded from the atmosphere by a layer of conductive flux. Due to the simplicity of the SMAW process and machinery, it’s one of the most common and cost-effective welding methods used in a multitude of global industries that don’t require more specialized welds or materials.