Work Angle The second angle used to describe the position of the electrode is the work angle. The work angle describes the position of the electrode as it tilts side to side about the weld axis. It is the angle between a line perpendicular (90°) to the major workpiece and a plane determined by the electrode axis and the weld axis. The work angle is shown in Figure 12-12. When the electrode is perpendicular to the weld axis, the work angle is zero degrees (0°). Backhand and Forehand Welding In SMAW, the backhand welding method is usually used. In backhand welding, the welding end of the electrode points back toward the weld bead that has been completed. Thus, the electrode tip points opposite the direction of travel. The travel 90° 70° from metal surface Weld bead and ripples Molten weld pool 20° from perpendicular Top view End view Side view Straight edges Evenly spaced oval ripples Molten weld pool Weld axis Direction of motion 20° Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 12-9. Study these three views of a SMAW weld bead in progress. Note that the electrode holder leads the welding end of the electrode at about a 20° angle. This position can also be described as 70° from the surface of the base metal. The end view shows the electrode perpendicular (90°) to the surface of the workpiece. The completed weld bead should have straight edges, evenly spaced bullet-shaped ripples, and a uniform height. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 12-10. This butt joint is being welded using the SMAW backhand welding method. A 20° drag travel angle is formed. This angle helps to pile up the filler metal behind the weld pool. Chapter 12 SMAW: Flat Welding Position 173 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.