Which of the following is not a stated advantage of SMAW?

The statement that the deposition rate of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is higher than that of Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) or Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) is indeed not a commonly recognized advantage of SMAW. In fact, SMAW typically has a lower deposition rate compared to these other welding processes.

SMAW is known for its versatility, as it can indeed be used in various positions—flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead—making it adaptable to different welding situations. The equipment for SMAW is generally less expensive compared to other welding methods, which makes it more accessible for many users, especially in field applications. Furthermore, SMAW is highly portable; the equipment can be easily transported, allowing it to be used in various work environments without the need for bulky machinery.

In summary, while SMAW offers many advantages such as versatility, cost-effectiveness, and portability, it does not provide a high deposition rate compared to GMAW and SAW. This distinction highlights the limitations of SMAW in terms of productivity when compared to these more advanced welding techniques.