Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), commonly known as stick welding, is a manual arc welding process that employs a consumable electrode coated in a flux material. During the welding process, an electric arc is established between the tip of the electrode and the workpiece. The intense heat generated by the arc melts both the electrode and the base metal, forming a molten pool. Some of the flux coating on the electrode vaporizes, creating a protective gas shield and a slag layer that covers the weld area. This shield prevents atmospheric contamination and oxidation of the molten metal, ensuring a clean and strong weld. The remaining flux forms a slag layer on the surface of the weld. SMAW is a versatile welding method suitable for a wide range of materials and thicknesses, making it commonly used in construction, pipeline welding, maintenance, and repair work. Its portability and simplicity make it suitable for outdoor and remote welding applications, but it requires skill and experience to control the welding parameters effectively.