Shutting off the machine too quickly?

[chicagojimmyjames]

My machine has a 20% duty cycle. That part I understand.

But one thing that isn't in the manual, my welding book, or any quick searches I did on this site is when to shut off the machine.

Question 1:
I'm going to assume a minute or two after small welds is enough time for the internal fan to cool things down?

Question 2:
What about when I'm not going to be welding for 5 minutes...? Does it save wear and tear on the machine to switch it off? Or is it better for the machine to avoid constantly powering up and down again?

Thanks guys!

j

 

[pedrobedro]

Leave it running and the fan will cool it down quicker than if it is switched off. 20% at what rate ? Usually you will have something like 20% at full power and probably 100% at half power so if you are not cutting it out don't worry about it.

 

[christy]

The duty cycle only applies to welding time not the time when the machine is turned on, and in theory should cool down quicker if it is left on as the fan will still be running.