SMAW welding on AC current will primarily eliminate which issue?

Choosing AC current for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is primarily beneficial in addressing the issue of arc blow. Arc blow occurs when the welding arc is deflected away from the intended weld area, which can happen due to the magnetic fields produced in the workpiece, particularly when DC current is used.

When utilizing AC current, the polarity is constantly changing, which helps to neutralize the magnetic fields around the welding arc. This fluctuation of polarity allows for a more stable arc and reduces the risk of arc blow, leading to better control and more consistent weld quality.

This is particularly important in situations where the workpiece has significant mass or when welding on heavily magnetized materials, as the use of DC can significantly exacerbate the problem of arc blow. Therefore, employing AC in SMAW can effectively mitigate this issue, enhancing the overall welding process and ensuring proper arc stability.