What is MMA (Stick) Welding
What Is MMA Welding?
Manual Metal Arc welding (MMA welding) sometimes referred to as stick welding due to the long electrodes. Is another welding process that uses electricity to melt and join pieces of metal. MMA welding is a process where the electrical arc is struck between an electrode flux coated metal rod and the work piece. Both the rod and the surface of the work piece melt to create a weld.
MMA Welding also known as Stick Welding or ARC welding is a proven and reliable welding process and relatively cheap.
MMA Welding was first developed in 1888 in Russia and coated electrodes were available in the early 1900's.
How MMA Welding Works
MMA (Manual Metal ARC) welding uses a coated electrode which you put into an electrode holder. When the end of the electrode rod touches the workpiece, an arc is struck. The outside coating releases a shielding gas and slag to protect the weld. This stops it from oxidising while the inside metal rod melts to form the weld bead. The slag will solidify when the weld cools and then is chipped off exposing the weld bead.
A Consumable Electrode
MMA Welding uses consumable electrode rod which melts at 1200°C melting point. The melting electrode forms part of the weld bead and reduces in length whilst the operator is welding. MMA Welding electrodes can be brought for welding cast iron, mild steel most commonly used to Weld Mild Steel in industrial environments. It is commonly used as an accessible way for the casual welder to weld car chasis back together as it requires less equipment than the other welding processes.
The Versatility Of MMA Welding
MMA Welding is a simple processes but hard to master as it’s not so intuitive and requires more practise. It works best welding metals that are slightly thicker 3mm plus but is most comfortable welding thicker metals up to 10mm or more in come cases.
Pros And Cons Of MMA Welding
As we keep saying; MMA welding is incredibly simple and suitable for a wide range of fabrication projects. However, as with any welding process, MMA welding has advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the main things to know when considering MMA welding:
Advantages Of MMA Welding
Welding Mild Steel using the MMA Welding processes is incredible cheap as the machinery is inexpensive and electrodes are readily available so makes completing your fabrication project possible.
MMA welding is relatively fast, especially when you are experienced at it. Even done by skilled welders, the process is often faster than other welding.
You can use MMA welding in any position: vertical; horizontal; overhead with the right techique.
Due to the amount the material the drops into the weld bead from the electrodes MMA welds are extremely strong and won’t crack.
A good quality MIG Welder will also off MMA Welding
The parts are easy and inexpensive to replace.
Disadvantages Of MMA Welding
The weld puddle is harder to control due to the increase in power coming from the electrode which means detailed welds are not easy to achieve.
Due to the heat created it’s easier to distort your work if you put to much heat into the workpiece.
A lot of smoke and odour is created by the burning of the shielding gas means it require professional extraction to remove the fumes from the working area.
Because of the techniques required to grasp MMA Welding it is often a steeper learning curve than other welding processes. The reward you get some mastering MMA welding means you will be a more resourceful welder and can lower your costs when required. Saying that; you will need to put the time in and be patient while developing your MMA skills.
So there they are, the main pros and cons of MMA welding. We say, don’t let this put you off investing in good-quality equipment, practising hard and mastering the art and craft of MMA welding. Of all welding processes, MMA welding remains the simplest. It’s also the one capable of delivering exactly the same results as a MIG Welder if you develop your skills enough.
MMA Welding We’re Here To Help
Our courses have a focus on MMA Welding as we believe it’s the most accessible for the DIY welding enthusiast. Our Metalwork Fundamentals Course is perfect for understanding the skills required for welding and fabricating metal objects.
Our one-day course will introduce you to the fundamentals of MMA (Stick) welding and metal fabrication. MMA (Stick) Welding is one of the oldest and most accessible forms of welding metal. The day includes Stick welding tuition, material preparation, cutting and metal finishing techniques all fundamental skills for fabricating objects in metal.
Over the day; you will receive 1-2-1 tuition in stick welding, learn about preparing material using an angle grinder and about the safe use of workshop machinery for cutting.
You will then use these skills to construct a Plant Stand and weld it together. This course is perfect for beginners or anyone keen learn about basic of MMA welding, Fabrication or DIY learners looking to weld their own furniture.
