What is MMA (Manual Metal Arc) Welding? – How Does it Work ？

One of the most widely used and versatile arc welding approaches, Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, involves creating an arc between a metal-coated anode and a workpiece.

Therefore, what is MMA welding? It’s also called Shielded Metal Arc welding (SMAW). It’s a procedure in which the electric arc burns between the coated anode and the workpiece.

How Does MMA Welding Work?

It may be a crucial query to answer about MMA welding. With MMA welding, you should put the anode in an electrode holder, and it briefly touches the point to be connected. A short circuit is produced, and the arc starts once the anode is lifted.

The anode with the coating changes to a liquid, and then slag is created over the welded surface. The heat from the arc thaws the anode and the base metal, which combines to form a coherent solid mass as it cools.

The metal anode or the core cable acts as a consumable. It’s the perfect attachment method for numerous mediocre and high resistance carbon steel.

An electric current produced by the welding power supply is used to generate an arc between the anode and the metal that you’re welding. The arc changes the anode’s core into a liquid to produce drops of melted metal. The procedure creates the weld.

The flux coating on the electrode also thaws and forms a protective gas. It creates a layer of slag that protects the weld from atmosphere deterioration. Get rid of the slag layer after every weld.