What does the term 'duty cycle' refer to in welding?

The term 'duty cycle' specifically refers to the amount of time a welder can operate continuously before it risks overheating. This is typically expressed as a percentage over a specific time frame, such as 10 minutes. For example, a welder with a 60% duty cycle at a certain amperage can be used for 6 minutes of continuous operation followed by 4 minutes of rest to allow for adequate cooling. Understanding duty cycle is critical for ensuring that the welding equipment is used within its recommended operating limits, which helps to prevent damage to the machine and maintain safe working conditions. Recognizing the significance of duty cycle is essential for welders to optimize their performance and prolong the lifespan of their equipment.