SMAW welding on AC current will eliminate which of the following issues?

Using Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) on alternating current (AC) can effectively address the issue of arc blow. Arc blow occurs when there are magnetic fields present, which can deflect the arc away from the intended weld path, causing an inconsistent and poor-quality weld. AC current helps to mitigate this problem because it eliminates the directional magnetic effect created by DC current; since the current alternates, the magnetic field is more balanced and does not consistently pull the arc in one direction.

The use of AC makes it possible to maintain a more stable arc, improving control and reducing the likelihood of these magnetic interruptions that lead to arc blow. This is particularly important when welding on materials that may be affected by the arc's position or path, ensuring a better quality weld. Understanding this principle can greatly aid in making informed choices about welding processes in practice.