Ohio Welding Certification Exam Stick

Ohio Welding Certification Exam – Stick SMAW Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2025|2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the main purpose of a welding rod coating?
• Increase electrical conductivity
• Stabilize the arc and protect the weld from contamination
• Make the rod stronger
• Decrease melting point

Rationale: The coating on a SMAW electrode stabilizes the arc,

produces shielding gas, and prevents contamination from the atmosphere.

• What does the term “slag” refer to in SMAW?
• Weld metal 1 / 4

• Residue from the electrode coating
• Base metal impurities
• Welding sparks

Rationale: Slag is a byproduct of the electrode coating that covers

and protects the molten weld until it solidifies.

• Which electrode polarity is generally used for deep penetration in

SMAW?

• AC only
• DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative)
• DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive)
• DC with high frequency

Rationale: DCEN allows more heat in the workpiece, providing

deeper penetration.

• What is the recommended electrode angle for a vertical-up SMAW

weld?

• 90° to the workpiece
• 45° pointing downward
• 60° pointing toward the joint
• 10–15° pointing upward from vertical

Rationale: For vertical-up welding, a slight upward angle helps

control the weld pool and reduce slag inclusions.

• What is the primary cause of porosity in a weld?
• Incorrect current setting 2 / 4

• Contaminants such as oil, rust, or moisture
• Wrong electrode diameter
• Electrode length

Rationale: Contaminants on the metal surface or electrode introduce

gases, causing porosity in the weld.

• What is the typical current setting for a 3/32” E7018 electrode?

A. 20–40 A

B. 40–60 A

C. 70–130 A

D. 150–200 A

Rationale: E7018 electrodes require moderate current settings to

ensure proper arc stability and penetration.

• Which of the following is a low-hydrogen electrode?

A. E6010

B. E7018

C. E6013

D. E7024

Rationale: E7018 electrodes have a low-hydrogen coating to reduce

the risk of cracking in welds.

• What is the main advantage of a cellulose-coated electrode like

E6010?

• Produces low penetration
• Smooth weld bead 3 / 4

• Excellent for deep penetration and root passes
• Requires low skill

Rationale: Cellulose-coated electrodes burn fast, providing deep

penetration and a forceful arc, ideal for pipe welding root passes.

• What is the danger of using a damp electrode?
• Faster welds
• Easier slag removal
• Excessive hydrogen in the weld leading to cracking
• Reduced penetration

Rationale: Moisture in electrodes introduces hydrogen into the weld,

increasing the risk of cold cracking.

• What does “arc blow” refer to?
• Excessive current
• Deflection of the welding arc due to magnetic forces
• Slag inclusions
• Poor fusion

Rationale: Arc blow is the magnetic deflection of the welding arc,

common in DC welding of ferrous metals.

• Which type of joint is commonly tested in certification welding?
• Lap joint only
• Edge joint only
• Butt joint
• Tee joint only
• / 4