For many people, especially those who are new to it or perhaps don’t weld every day, stick welding,

otherwise known as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), is one of the more difficult processes to
learn. Experienced welders who can pick up a stinger, pop an electrode in and lay down great welds
time after time can inspire great awe in the rest of us. They make it look easy.
The rest of us may struggle with it, though. And we don’t have to, not if we pay attention to five basic
elements of our technique: current setting, length of arc, angle of electrode, manipulation of
electrode and speed of travel — or CLAMS, for short. Properly addressing these five basic areas
can improve your results.

Prepare
While stick welding may be the most forgiving process on dirty or rusty metal, don’t use that as an
excuse for not properly cleaning the material. Use a wire brush or grinder to remove dirt, grime or
rust from the area to be welded. Ignoring these steps hurt your chances to make a good weld the
first time. Unclean conditions can lead to cracking, porosity, lack of fusion or inclusions. While you’re
at it, make sure you have a clean spot for the work clamp. A good, solid electrical connection is
important to maintain arc quality.
Position yourself so you have a good view of the weld puddle. For the best view, keep your head off
to the side and out of the weld fumes to ensure you’re welding in the joint and keeping the arc on the
leading edge of the puddle. Make sure your stance allows you to comfortably support and
manipulate the electrode.

CLAMS
Bringing all the CLAMS points (current setting, length of arc, angle of electrode, manipulation of the
electrode, and speed of travel) together may seem like a lot to think about while welding, but it
becomes second nature with practice. Don’t get discouraged! There is a learning curve with stick
welding, which many believe got its name because when learning how to weld, everyone sticks the
electrode to the workpiece.
Current setting: The electrode you select will determine whether your machine should be set up in
DC positive, DC negative or AC. Make sure you have it set correctly for your application. (Electrode
positive provides about 10 percent more penetration at a given amperage than AC, while DC straight
polarity, electrode negative, welds thinner metals better.) The correct amperage setting primarily
depends on the diameter and type of electrode you select. The electrode manufacturer usually
indicates the electrode’s operating ranges on the box or enclosed materials. Select your amperage
based on the electrode (a general rule of thumb is 1 amp for each .001-inch of electrode diameter),
welding position (about 15 percent less heat for overhead work compared to a flat weld), and visual
inspection of the finished weld. Adjust your welder by 5 to 10 amps at a time, until the ideal setting is
reached.