*Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), also known as manual metal arc welding (MMA (or) MMAW), flux shielded arc welding or informally as stick welding, is a manual arc welding process that uses a consumable electrode covered with a flux to lay the weld.

*An electric current, in the form of either alternating current (or) direct current from a welding power supply, is used to form an electric arc between the electrode and the metals to be joined. The work piece and the electrode melts forming a pool of molten metal (weld pool) that cools to form a joint.