MIG/MAG

TIG
 MMA / SMAW

Polarity (type of current)

Polarity affects the distribution of heat differently in MMA than in MIG or TIG,
presumed to be because of the effects of the compounds in the flux. There is
evidence that DCEN can result in higher melting rates in MMA, completely
different from MIG or TIG. The preferred polarity of the MMA system depends
upon the electrode being used and the desired properties of the weld.
Manufacturers have developed coating systems that stabilise the arc in AC, DCEP
or DCEN. Many electrodes work on more than one polarity and some work
successfully on all three.

The MMA process however, with its consumable electrode, does not have these
concerns. The heat distribution between the electrode and the workpiece is also
different, and is not as strongly controlled by the polarity. In particular, the
movement of material directly from the consumable electrode to the workpiece
results in significant balancing of the heat between the two points.

What is more important than the heat distribution is the effect of polarity on
penetration in MMA welding. In general, operating on DCEP results in greater
penetration, and DCEN results in reduced penetration and a reduction in
dilution of the weld metal with the substrate. This is important for electrodes
that are capable of being used on both DC polarities (and AC). The DCEN mode is
often used on open root runs to reduce the risk of burn-through, whereas DCEP
is used to reduce the risk of lack of fusion defects. DCEN can also be used for
surfacing applications in order to minimise penetration, and thin sheet welding.
AC is also used as a method of reducing the potential for arc blow. The
overruling factor however is still the electrode flux coating, which is inherent to
the welding electrode, and results in polarity restrictions specified by the
manufacturer.

https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/faq-when-manual-metal-arc-
welding-which-electrode-polarity-should-i-use#:~:text=The%20DCEN%20mode%20is
%20often,penetration%2C%20and%20thin%20sheet%20welding.
 RESUME ALL
DCEP : DC+ve
DCEN : DC-ve