In what welding process is a flux-coated rod used?

In the context of welding processes, shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) employs a flux-coated rod, also known as an electrode. This particular type of welding utilizes the heat generated by an electric arc formed between the coated electrode and the workpiece. The coating on the electrode serves multiple purposes: it protects the molten weld pool from atmospheric contamination, providing a shielding effect, and it also contributes to the formation of slag that helps protect the solidifying weld bead.

The flux in the coating disintegrates and generates gases when heated, which helps to protect the weld area during the process. This feature is integral to the process and distinguishes SMAW from other welding techniques, such as gas metal arc welding (MIG), which uses a continuous wire feed without flux, and tungsten inert gas welding (TIG), which employs a non-consumable tungsten electrode. Submerged arc welding is another method that involves a granular flux but does not use a flux-coated rod, making this choice specific to shielded metal arc welding. Thus, the reality of the flux-coated electrode's role is crucial in identifying SMAW as the correct answer.