MMA Equipment

What is MMA / stick welding? 

MMA welding, use a coated welding electrode within an electrode holder. When the workpiece and electrode touch, the arc is struck the coated electrode releases a shielding gas and slag to protect the weld. Welding a wide variety of metals including aluminum choose MMA welding.

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Coated electrodes: 

Stick welding uses coated welding electrodes to help optimise performance for various applications. Including the speed in which slag freezes, the penetration of the weld and deposition rate. Coated welding electrodes are split into three options; Cellulosic, Rutile and basic. These names are based on the coating type

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Cellulosic electrodes include a high proportion of cellulose in the coating. Deeply penetrating arc and a rapid burn-off rate give high welding speeds. Weld deposit can be coarse and with fluid slag, de-slagging can be difficult. These electrodes are suitable for ease of use in any position including vertical down welding.

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Rutile electrodes are a general-purpose electrode with a high proportion of titanium oxide in the flux coating. Making for an easy arc ignition, smooth arc operation and low spatter. Suitable for AC/DC power source in all positions but especially suited for horizontal/vertical stick welding.

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The basic electrode contains a high proportion of calcium carbonate and calcium fluoride. Making the slag more fluid and fast-freezing making the basic electrode ideal for vertical and overhead welding. They produce a higher quality weld with good mechanical properties and cracking resistance. As such these are used in heavy fabrication industries.

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Advantages of Stick Welding: 

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• Versatility: Stick welding can be used in a wide range of settings. It doesn't rely on a gas supply, making it highly portable and suitable for outdoor and on-site work. It can be used on a huge range of materials. Welding in every position is possible with the correct selection of electrodes.

• Portable: Cables up to 100m long are available making access into difficult areas possible. 

• Ease of Learning: MMA welding is usually the first welding process that is taught, consequently there is a large knowledge base.

• Cost: MMA machines do not require a big investment to start up. Selection of the correct model is dependent on the size and thickness of the material to be welded. 

• Welding different thicknesses of material: MMA can be used to weld both very thick and thinner materials. This process is not recommended for very thin materials, where TIG welding is the more common, manual method.

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Disadvantages of Stick Welding: 

• Slower Process: By definition, the welding stops when the electrode has been used, the process generates certain amounts of both fume and spatter although the level of these produced are related to the type of electrode.

• Post-weld cleaning: After welding, the layer of slag needs to be removed. The ease of slag removal also depends on the electrode used.