New Lincoln 256 Power Mig - Manual calls for 60 amp receptacle... hmmmm?

[Todd727]

That manual is a POS for advice, #10 wire wont carry a welding machine load of 30 amps much less 60. OP stated the machine rated input load was 52 amps so per NEC you can take that X 70% for the rated wiring and breaker. This is because the machine will never be ran full time at max load due to the duty rating. My 300 AMP Miller CC/CV AC/DC machine only pull 50 amp at full load with a 60% duty cycle. I have it on a 50 amp breaker which is above the code requirements.

Actually, I looked back and that #10 recommendation is just for the flexible cord from the machine to the outlet. I would go bigger too.