Which statement correctly describes the SMAW power source?

Which statement correctly describes the SMAW power source?

• A. Constant Current is recommended
• B. Constant Voltage is recommended
• C. Battery power is mandatory
• D. Solar power is mandatory

Answer: (A)

SMAW relies on a constant current power source to keep the arc stable and the heat input predictable. When the electrode wears or the arc length changes, the current stays near the set value, so penetration and bead quality remain consistent. The voltage automatically adjusts to maintain that current, which is why constant voltage isn’t the typical description for SMAW. Battery or solar power aren’t defining requirements for SMAW—they’re just possible energy options in some setups, not the standard way the power source is described.

SMAW relies on a constant current power source to keep the arc stable and the heat input predictable. When the electrode wears or the arc length changes, the current stays near the set value, so penetration and bead quality remain consistent. The voltage automatically adjusts to maintain that current, which is why constant voltage isn’t the typical description for SMAW. Battery or solar power aren’t defining requirements for SMAW—they’re just possible energy options in some setups, not the standard way the power source is described.