Stick welding uses electricity to melt the filler metal rod or the electrode as it is properly referred to. Both the metal joint and the electrode are melted at the same time and fused them together. The joint is filled with filler metal at the same time to make the weld stronger. The electrode is covered with a layer of flux.

Stick welding is performed by striking an electric arc between a metal electrode and the work piece. An electric current passes through the electrode and melts it into the work piece and forms a weld pool.

However, stick welding is the most commonly used arc welding process, making use of an electrode (sometimes called a filler rod or just a stick) and electric power to fuse metals together and fill in the joint. The electrode’s core is made up of solid metal that is then encased in mineral compounds and powdered metal, along with a binding agent.

The process uses electricity to melt the electrode or the filler metal rod. The electrode and metal joint are melted simultaneously and fused. The joint is then filled with filler metal to make it stronger. The flux covering the electrode melts because of heat and protects the weld pool from contamination by the atmosphere.