Quote Originally Posted by rob1
the duty cycle is 20% @70 amps, the amp output is 35 -88, what does this mean and is this good?
I know it has a lot to do with welding time and amp draw. so here is the best way I was able to explain it.

(Duty cycle is a welding equipment specification which defines the number of minutes, within a 10 minute period, during which a given welder can safely produce a particular welding current.

For example, a 150 amp. welder with a 30% duty cycle must be "rested" for at least 7 minutes after 3 minutes of continuous welding. (When you are paying an employee for welding, anything less than 100% duty wastes money.)Quote"