Which polarities are used in SMAW welding?

Which polarities are used in SMAW welding?

• A. DC- and AC
• B. DC+ and AC
• C. DC- and DC+
• D. AC only

Answer: (A)

In SMAW, you have two practical ways to power the arc: direct current with the electrode negative (DC-), and alternating current (AC). DC- concentrates heat into the workpiece, giving good control and penetration, while AC works well with many coated electrodes and can be easier to start and maintain the arc. Direct current positive (DC+) is not commonly used as the standard setting for most SMAW applications, and a choice that suggests AC only would ignore the many cases where DC current is used. Therefore, the combination that reflects the typical, versatile options for SMAW is DC- and AC.

In SMAW, you have two practical ways to power the arc: direct current with the electrode negative (DC-), and alternating current (AC). DC- concentrates heat into the workpiece, giving good control and penetration, while AC works well with many coated electrodes and can be easier to start and maintain the arc. Direct current positive (DC+) is not commonly used as the standard setting for most SMAW applications, and a choice that suggests AC only would ignore the many cases where DC current is used. Therefore, the combination that reflects the typical, versatile options for SMAW is DC- and AC.