An advantage of SMAW is that no slag is left behind after a weld is made.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Slag is always left behind
• D. No slag is formed at all

Answer: (B)

In SMAW, the flux coating on the electrode decomposes during welding to create a protective slag that covers the weld as it solidifies. This slag shields the molten metal from the atmosphere and helps remove impurities. After cooling, that slag hardens on top of the weld and typically must be chipped or brushed away. Because slag is an expected outcome of SMAW, the idea that no slag is left behind is not correct. So the statement is false. Note that other processes like TIG generally don’t produce slag, and SMAW’s slag removal step is a normal part of the process.