If an SAW power source has a 100% duty cycle, what does this imply?

If an SAW power source has a 100% duty cycle, what does this imply?

• A. It can operate continuously without overheating
• B. It must be cooled after every weld
• C. It should be shut off during non-welding
• D. It delivers maximum current only intermittently

Answer: (A)

Duty cycle is how long the welding power source can run at a given current within a cooling period. A 100% duty cycle means the unit can be energized continuously and still stay within its thermal limits, so you can weld without having to pause for cooling due to the power source itself. This implies continuous operation at the rated current is permitted. It doesn’t guarantee you’re always delivering maximum current—you set the current, and 100% duty cycle just ensures that setting can be used continuously without overheating. The other options describe scenarios that require cooling or imply intermittent use, which isn’t the case with a true 100% duty cycle.

Duty cycle is how long the welding power source can run at a given current within a cooling period. A 100% duty cycle means the unit can be energized continuously and still stay within its thermal limits, so you can weld without having to pause for cooling due to the power source itself. This implies continuous operation at the rated current is permitted. It doesn’t guarantee you’re always delivering maximum current—you set the current, and 100% duty cycle just ensures that setting can be used continuously without overheating. The other options describe scenarios that require cooling or imply intermittent use, which isn’t the case with a true 100% duty cycle.