What materials are most commonly used in shielded metal arc welding?

The most commonly used materials in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) are indeed mild carbon steels and low alloy steels. This welding process is particularly effective for these materials due to its versatility and the ease of using various electrodes that can be specifically designed for these types of steel.

Mild carbon steels are prevalent in construction and manufacturing due to their good weldability, strength, and availability. Low alloy steels possess enhanced properties from added elements, making them suitable for applications requiring higher strength and toughness. The SMAW technique allows welders to effectively join these steels while making adjustments to factors like heat input and electrode type to accommodate different thicknesses and applications.

Other materials mentioned, such as stainless steels and nonferrous metals, while weldable using different methods, are not typically the primary focus of SMAW compared to carbon and low alloy steels. This distinction highlights the specific strengths of SMAW in relation to the most common materials encountered in various industries.