1. What is Welder Duty Cycle?

The welder duty cycle represents the percentage of time a welding machine can operate at a given output without overheating during a 10-minute period. It's a crucial specification for welding equipment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the duty cycle formula:

Where:

• Weld Time — Actual welding time in minutes
• 10 min Period — Standard measurement period (fixed at 10 minutes)

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage of a 10-minute period the welder was actively welding.

3. Importance of Duty Cycle Calculation

Details: Knowing the duty cycle helps prevent equipment overheating, ensures proper welder selection for jobs, and maintains welding quality and safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the actual welding time in minutes (must be between 0 and 10). The calculator will compute the percentage of the 10-minute period spent welding.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 10 minutes the standard period?
A: 10 minutes is an industry standard that provides a meaningful measurement of thermal performance without being too short or too long.

Q2: What is a typical duty cycle for welders?
A: Light-duty welders might have 20-30% duty cycles, while industrial welders often have 60-100% duty cycles at rated outputs.

Q3: Does duty cycle vary with amperage?
A: Yes, most welders have higher duty cycles at lower amperages and lower duty cycles at maximum output.

Q4: How does ambient temperature affect duty cycle?
A: Higher ambient temperatures typically reduce effective duty cycle as cooling becomes less efficient.

Q5: Can I exceed the rated duty cycle?
A: Exceeding the rated duty cycle may cause overheating and damage to the welding equipment.