What is meant by straight polarity?

What is meant by straight polarity?

• A. Direct current electrode negative
• B. Direct current electrode positive
• C. Alternating current
• D. No polarity

Answer: (A)

Straight polarity means using direct current with the electrode connected to the negative terminal. In this setup, current flows from the electrode into the workpiece, concentrating most of the arc heat into the workpiece. That gives deeper penetration and less wear on the electrode, which is why this polarity is commonly used for welding ferrous metals with certain SMAW electrodes. The opposite polarity (electrode positive) puts more heat into the electrode and is chosen in other situations, but for straight polarity the key idea is electrode negative and DC current.

Straight polarity means using direct current with the electrode connected to the negative terminal. In this setup, current flows from the electrode into the workpiece, concentrating most of the arc heat into the workpiece. That gives deeper penetration and less wear on the electrode, which is why this polarity is commonly used for welding ferrous metals with certain SMAW electrodes. The opposite polarity (electrode positive) puts more heat into the electrode and is chosen in other situations, but for straight polarity the key idea is electrode negative and DC current.