For SMAW, which statement describes where the electrode is connected when using reverse polarity?

For SMAW, which statement describes where the electrode is connected when using reverse polarity?

• A. The electrode is connected to the positive terminal
• B. The electrode is connected to the negative terminal
• C. The electrode is connected to the ground
• D. The electrode is not connected to any terminal

Answer: (A)

In SMAW, reverse polarity means the electrode is connected to the positive terminal while the workpiece is connected to the negative (ground). This arrangement concentrates more heat in the workpiece, promoting deeper penetration and efficient fusion on many metals. The shielding from the electrode’s flux remains active, but the heat distribution changes with polarity. If you were using straight polarity, the heat would be more focused at the electrode, which is advantageous for different welding conditions such as thinner materials.

In SMAW, reverse polarity means the electrode is connected to the positive terminal while the workpiece is connected to the negative (ground). This arrangement concentrates more heat in the workpiece, promoting deeper penetration and efficient fusion on many metals. The shielding from the electrode’s flux remains active, but the heat distribution changes with polarity. If you were using straight polarity, the heat would be more focused at the electrode, which is advantageous for different welding conditions such as thinner materials.