What does the term “biting” refer to in SMAW?

In the context of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), "biting" specifically refers to the phenomenon where the welding arc penetrates too deeply into the base metal, which can lead to irregular penetration features and adversely affect the appearance of the weld bead. This situation typically arises when the welder is using incorrect arc length or welding technique, resulting in the arc not maintaining a stable, desirable distance from the workpiece.

When biting occurs, it can cause various issues such as excessive erosion of the base metal, leading to an undesirable weld profile and potential structural weaknesses. Maintaining the proper distance and angle of the electrode is crucial to prevent this from happening and ensuring a smooth, consistent weld bead.

The other options describe different issues that can occur during welding but do not capture the specific nature of "biting" in SMAW. Understanding this term helps welders be more aware of the dynamics of the welding arc and improve their technique for better weld quality.