Stick (SMAW) Welding, Brazing, and Soldering Equipment
Last Updated: February 12, 2025
Description
Stick welding, also known as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), is a process that uses a consumable electrode coated in flux to lay the weld. The equipment required for SMAW is relatively simple, consisting of a power source, electrode holder, ground clamp, and the electrodes themselves. Brazing and soldering equipment, on the other hand, involves the use of a filler metal to join two or more metals at a lower temperature than welding. These processes are used to bond metals with different melting points or to create joints without melting the base materials.
Working Principle
In SMAW, an electric arc is struck between the electrode and the workpiece, generating heat that melts both the electrode and the workpiece to form a weld pool. The flux coating on the electrode melts to create a gas and slag that shield the weld pool from atmospheric contamination, ensuring a clean weld. Brazing involves heating the base metals and a filler metal above the melting point of the filler but below that of the base metals, allowing the filler to flow into the joint by capillary action. Soldering is similar to brazing but occurs at temperatures below 450°C, making it suitable for delicate or heat-sensitive components.
Applications
SMAW is widely used in construction for erecting structures and can be performed outdoors, making it suitable for fieldwork. It is also used in the welding of wrought iron and ornamental fabrications. Brazing is commonly used in plumbing fixtures, tools, and construction equipment, as well as in the automotive and aerospace industries for joining dissimilar metals. Soldering is prevalent in electronics for creating electrical connections on circuit boards.
Advantages over other Welding, Brazing, and Soldering Equipment
SMAW is advantageous for its simplicity and versatility, especially in outdoor environments where shielding gases used in other welding processes would be ineffective. It is also cost-effective due to the minimal equipment required. Brazing offers the advantage of joining dissimilar metals and creating clean joints with tight tolerances. It is also easier to automate compared to welding. Soldering provides a low-temperature solution for joining delicate components without damaging them.
Limitations
SMAW has a relatively low arc time factor due to the need for frequent electrode changes and slag removal, which can slow down the process. It also requires skilled operators to ensure quality welds. Brazing, while versatile, results in joints with relatively lower strength compared to welding and requires pre-cleaning of metals to ensure proper bonding. Soldering is limited by its low joint strength and is not suitable for high-temperature applications.
Considerations
When choosing between these processes, consider the initial costs and operating expenses. SMAW equipment is generally affordable, but the process can be labor-intensive. Brazing equipment can vary in cost depending on the level of automation desired. Durability and maintenance costs should also be considered; SMAW electrodes need regular replacement, while brazing and soldering require careful handling of filler materials to prevent contamination. Accuracy in these processes depends on the skill of the operator and the quality of the equipment used.
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
Optimized to operate together with the Aristo Mig U5000i. It can also be used with the Origo Mig 4002c and 6502c. The U6 expands your welding capabilities further from the MA24. The U6 features manual MIG/MAG plus TIG, Stick welding and Arc Gouging controlled from the wire feeder. Features. Quick... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Flux Cored Arc (FCAW); Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Input Phase: Three Phase Power
from BUG-O Systems, Inc.
The Piper Bug Pipe Welding System from Bug-O Systems is a digitally controlled programmable welding travel carriage integrated with Lincoln Electric ® Invertec ® V350-PRO Power Source. The Piper Bug features a positive rack and pinion drive system and a digital control box in which all... [See More]
- Process Capability: Gas Torch Brazing; Cutting / Gouging Equipment; Welding; MIG (GMAW); Multi-process; Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz; 208-230/240V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Input Current: 300
from Miller Electric Manufacturing Co.
Miller welders help you get the job done in a wide variety of demanding applications. Explore our selection of welding machines, including MIG welders, TIG welders, Stick welders, engine drive welder generators, submerged arc welders and multiprocess welders to find the welder that ’s right... [See More]
- Process Capability: Air Carbon Arc Cutting and Gouging (CAC-A); Cutting / Gouging Equipment; Welding; MIG (GMAW); Multi-process; Flux Cored Arc (FCAW); Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- Material Capability: Mild Steel, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Specialty Metals
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
This unit is a compact and portable stud welding power supply capable of welding studs thru 5/8" diameter weld base. The fully regulated power supply which operates on three phase power produces a smooth, stable welding arc. Both the weld time and weld current are infinitely adjustable for... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Thickness Capability: #10 - 5/8"
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Easy to operate - With front mounted AC/DC polarity switch and full range amperage selector switch for accurate and dependable procedure setting. Smooth arc - Makes it easy to weld with different electrodes, including mild steel, low hydrogen, stainless steel and hardfacing electrodes. [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 36 to 50
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; International Power or Voltages - 50 Hz
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from Campbell Hausfeld
The Campbell Hausfeld 3-in-1 air compressor/generator/welder (GR3100) is ideal for jobsites and work trucks. Designed for high output and industrial reliability, its two-stage, cast-iron air compressor fills twin 5-gallon air tanks, providing a total air capacity of 10 gallons and 14 CFM of airflow... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz; 208-230/240V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Input Current: 180
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
Optimized to operate together with the Aristo Mig U5000i. It can also be used with the Origo Mig 4002c and 6502c. The U8 ² Plus expands your welding capabilities further from the U6. Expanded welding parameter memory positions permit storage of an unparalleled range of application settings,... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Flux Cored Arc (FCAW); Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Input Phase: Three Phase Power
from Miller Electric Manufacturing Co.
Miller welders help you get the job done in a wide variety of demanding applications. Explore our selection of welding machines, including MIG welders, TIG welders, Stick welders, engine drive welder generators, submerged arc welders and multiprocess welders to find the welder that ’s right... [See More]
- Process Capability: Submerged Arc; Air Carbon Arc Cutting and Gouging (CAC-A); Cutting / Gouging Equipment; Welding; MIG (GMAW); Multi-process; Flux Cored Arc (FCAW); Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- Material Capability: Mild Steel, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Specialty Metals
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz; 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz; International Power or Voltages - 50 Hz (optional feature)
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
The ARC-1850 is a state-of-the-art constant current stud welding power supply, capable of stick welding and arc air gouging. Mig welding feature is available. This system also has a dual gun option available. Both weld time and current are infinitely adjustable for maximum versatility in today's... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Multi-process; Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Thickness Capability: #10 - 7/8"
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Easy to operate - With front mounted AC/DC polarity switch. Smooth arc - Makes it easy to weld with different electrodes. 125 amp DC output - Enough for most 1/8" (3.2 mm) electrodes. 225 amp AC output - Enough for 3/16" (4.8 mm) diameter general purpose mild steel electrodes. NEMA... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 36 to 50
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from Campbell Hausfeld
The Campbell Hausfeld 3-in-1 air compressor/generator/welder (GR3200) is ideal for jobsites and work trucks. Designed for high output and industrial reliability, its two-stage, cast-iron air compressor fills a 30-gallon air tank and delivers 14 CFM of airflow at 90 PSI to drive a wide variety of air... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz; 208-230/240V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Input Current: 180
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
The ET 220i AC/DC is a high output, full digital control, AC/DC, Stick/Liftarc TIG/HF TIG, inverter power supply with expanded input voltage capabilities for maximum flexibility.This unit is specially designed for precision TIG and Stick welding of all weldable materials. Superior, true square wave... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: PowerSource / Station
- Input Current: 11.9 to 22.1
from Miller Electric Manufacturing Co.
Stick welding is a simple yet versatile, inexpensive and portable welding process. Flux coated welding rods are used, eliminating the need for bottled shielding gas like that used in MIG welding or TIG welding. Stick welders are ideal to use when welding outdoors and/or welding objects that are... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Material Capability: Steel, Stainless Steel
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz; 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz; International Power or Voltages - 50 Hz (optional feature); Engine Driven Generator (optional feature)
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
The ARC-3000 is a fully regulated stud welding power supply that is available in single or dual gun version. Both versions have the constant output feature that allows the unit to be used as a power source that can operate external stud welding control units. An added feature in the ARC-3000 is the... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Multi-process; Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Thickness Capability: 1/4" - 1 1/4"
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Easy to install - Comes with attached 6 ft. (1.8m) input power cable and NEMA 6-50P plug. Easy to operate - Full range 40-225 amp selector switch quickly sets the welding current and ensures a uniform arc each and every time you weld. Smooth arc - Makes it easy to weld with different... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 63
- AC Input Voltage: International Power or Voltages - 50 Hz
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from Campbell Hausfeld
The Campbell Hausfeld 115-volt stick welder (WS099001AV) is designed for home and shop applications. Easy to use and portable, this welder has a transformer design that provides an easy-starting, smooth arc. Weld with 1/16-inch electrodes on a 15-amp household circuit; a 20-amp circuit is required... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Maximum Duty Cycle: 10 to 20
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
The ET 301i AC/DC is a high output, full digital control, AC/DC, Stick/Liftarc TIG/HF TIG, inverter power supply with expanded input voltage capabilities for maximum flexibility. This unit is specially designed for precision TIG and Stick welding of all weldable materials. Superior, true square wave... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: PowerSource / Station
- Input Current: 17.2 to 32
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
Plug in solid state circuitry accessible from rear door. Continuous current control from 250 to 900 Amps. Continuous time control from .05 to .7 seconds. System comes complete with solid state power supply, 25 ft. of 1/0 ground cable with clamp, 50ft. of 1/0 combination cable and light duty gun with... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Thickness Capability: #10 - 1/2"
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Easy to operate - Full range 40-225 amp selector switch quickly sets the welding current. Smooth arc - Makes it easy to weld. 225 amp AC output - Is enough for 3/16" (4.8 mm) diameter general purpose mild steel electrodes. Easy to install - Comes with attached input power cable. NEMA... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 50
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
Fabricator® 141i delivers 3-in-1 MIG, STICK, and TIG capability from one integrated portable system.Fabricator 141i features digital meters, 4T trigger control and quick change polarity from the front of the power source. Overload protection shuts down the power source to protect the internal... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 115/120V_60Hz; International Power or Voltages - 50 Hz
- Equipment Type: PowerSource / Station
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
The CD-212 is a state-of-the-art solid state capacitor discharge stud/pin welder. It's lightweight design increases portability but with the power to weld 1/4" diameter flanged studs. [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Material Capability: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Thickness Capability: Steel/SS/Brass: 14ga - 1/4" Alum: Varies
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Outstanding arc stability and built-in stabilizer. Versatile welding range. Suitable for use with every type of electrode. Change polarity with a twist of the wrist. Easy set-up and operation. Input Power. 230/460/575/1/60. Processes. Stick, Gouging [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 27 to 86
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
The MIG 4002c and 6502c switching converter (chopper) power sources are all intended for heavy-duty applications. The units are easily transported, and the digital (CANbus) communications and control system reduces the need for cables. Features. Multi-voltage – ready to work anywhere. Energy... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Flux Cored Arc (FCAW); Stick (SMAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Equipment Type: PowerSource / Station
- Input Phase: Three Phase Power
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
The CD-312 is a state-of-the-art solid state capacitor discharge stud/pin welder. It's rugged design and user friendly controls make it simple to set up and use. This unit has the power to weld up to 5/16" diameter flanged studs. [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Material Capability: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum and Brass
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Thickness Capability: Steel/SS/Brass: #2 - 5/16"; Alum: Varies
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Outstanding arc stability and built-in stabilizer. Versatile welding range. Suitable for use with every type of electrode. Change polarity with a twist of the wrist. Easy set-up and operation. Input Power. 208/230/460/1/60. Processes. Stick, Gouging [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 34 to 95
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Input Phase: Single Phase Power
from ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
Warrior ™ by ESAB - the breakthrough welding machine you need to expand your skills. Warrior was designed with input from real-world welders and built with ESAB's leading-edge engineering to be a machine that's as rugged and reliable as you are. Features. Multi-Process - Warrior is designed... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; MIG (GMAW); Flux Cored Arc (FCAW); Stick (SMAW); TIG (GTAW)
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz; 575/600V_60Hz; International Power or Voltages - 50 Hz
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Input Phase: Three Phase Power
from Southern Stud Weld, Inc.
This powerful capacitor discharge stud welding unit can handle any CD stud welding application. It has two range settings, and enough power to shoot up to 3/8" steel diameter flanged weld studs. [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stud / Nut Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Material Capability: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum
- Equipment Type: Complete System
- Thickness Capability: Steel/SS/Brass: #2 - 3/8"; Alum: Varies
from Lincoln Electric Co. (The)
Top Features. Substantial amperage ranges include the R3R-400 at 60-500 amps. Easy to operate - Calibrated current control knob makes procedure setting simple and easy. Polarity switch, voltmeter and ammeter are standard on the K1285-16 R3R-400. Arc gouge with the R3R-400 using up to 5/16 in. (7.9... [See More]
- Process Capability: Welding; Stick (SMAW)
- Input Current: 37 to 74
- AC Input Voltage: 208-230/240V_60Hz; 460/480V_60Hz
- Input Phase: Three Phase Power