Welding Time Estimator
Estimate the "arc time" and total labor time for a welding job. A powerful tool for project managers and estimators to plan schedules and forecast labor costs.
Job Details
Enter the total weld length and the average travel speed of your process.
Arc Time vs. Real Time: The Operator Factor
In project management, knowing how long a task will take is critical. For welding, this calculation has two parts: "Arc Time" and "Total Labor Time".
- Arc Time: This is the pure amount of time the welding arc is active and depositing metal. It's a direct calculation: `Arc Time = Total Weld Length / Travel Speed`.
- Total Labor Time: This is the time you actually pay the welder for. No welder can maintain a 100% arc-on time. They need to stop to change electrodes, reposition, clean the weld (deslagging/grinding), let the part cool, and take breaks. This reality is captured by the **Operator Factor** (also called duty cycle or operating factor).
The Operator Factor Formula
Total Labor Time = Arc Time / Operator Factor
The Operator Factor is the percentage of a welder's day that is spent actually welding. It varies dramatically by process. A stick welder (SMAW) might spend only 30% of their time welding due to frequent electrode changes and slag cleaning. A submerged arc (SAW) machine operator, however, might achieve 60% or more because the process is continuous and automated.