How long can a welding machine run continuously without stopping if it is working at the 60% duty cycle amperage?

The correct answer relates to understanding the concept of duty cycle in welding machines, which refers to the amount of time a welder can operate within a specific period without overheating. A 60% duty cycle means that the machine can run for 60% of a certain time frame before it needs to cool down.

If you consider a 10-minute cycle, the welder can run for 6 minutes continuously at the specified amperage and then must stop for 4 minutes to cool down. This ratio is crucial as it ensures the equipment remains operational without risking damage from overheating.

Therefore, running the machine for up to 6 minutes at the 60% duty cycle amperage ensures it operates effectively while adhering to the necessary cooling time. This aligns directly with the understanding of welding operations and the required maintenance of equipment health over time.