With SMAW, direct current electrode positive (DCEP) polarity will normally result in shallow penetration and faster electrode melting rates.

• A. Shallow penetration and faster electrode melting rates
• B. Deeper penetration and slower electrode melting rates
• C. No penetration
• D. Higher current

Answer: (A)

In SMAW, polarity changes where most of the arc heat goes. When the electrode is positive (DCEP), the arc delivers more heat to the electrode than to the workpiece, so the filler rod melts faster while the work metal receives less heat. That combination leads to shallower penetration in the weld because the base metal isn’t heated as deeply.

If you were using the opposite polarity (electrode negative), more heat would go into the workpiece, producing deeper penetration and slower electrode melting.