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What percentage of the rated primary current should overcurrent protection for an arc welder be set at or less?

  1. 100 percent

  2. 150 percent

  3. 200 percent

  4. 250 percent

The correct answer is: 200 percent

Overcurrent protection for an arc welder is recommended to be set at a certain percentage of the rated primary current to ensure safety and prevent unnecessary tripping during operation. Setting the overcurrent protection at 200 percent of the rated primary current allows the welder to handle the inrush current and fluctuations that commonly occur during the welding process without tripping. This percentage is aligned with industry standards that consider the operational demands of welders, as they often experience higher current draws at startup and during welding. In contrast, lower percentages of the rated primary current may lead to nuisance tripping, interrupting the welding process and potentially causing delays or safety hazards. Therefore, 200 percent is a practical and effective threshold for overcurrent protection, balancing the need for safety while accommodating the operational characteristics of arc welders.