Duty cycle describes how long a welding machine can operate before overheating. Which option reflects this meaning?

• A. Duty cycle indicates the maximum amperage
• B. Duty cycle describes how long a machine can weld continuously before overheating
• C. Duty cycle is the same as the operator's duty hours
• D. Duty cycle determines shield type

Answer: (B)

Duty cycle is about how long the welder can run before it overheats, at a given current. It’s usually shown as a percentage of a 10-minute period, telling you how many minutes you can weld before the machine needs to cool. For example, a 60% duty cycle at a certain amperage means you can weld for 6 minutes and then must let it rest for 4 minutes within that 10-minute window. The statement that describes how long it can weld continuously before overheating is the one that matches this concept. It doesn’t refer to the maximum amperage setting, operator work hours, or shield type, which are unrelated to how long the machine can operate before overheating.