 Submerged arc welding ( SAW ) is a high @-@ productivity welding method in which the arc is struck beneath a covering layer of flux . This increases arc quality , since contaminants in the atmosphere are blocked by the flux . The slag that forms on the weld generally comes off by itself , and combined with the use of a continuous wire feed , the weld deposition rate is high . Working conditions are much improved over other arc welding processes , since the flux hides the arc and almost no smoke is produced . The process is commonly used in industry , especially for large products and in the manufacture of welded pressure vessels . Other arc welding processes include atomic hydrogen welding , electroslag welding , electrogas welding , and stud arc welding . 
