Induction heating

Induction heating is a method of providing fast, consistent heat for manufacturing applications which involve bonding or changing the properties of metals or other electrically conductive materials. The process relies on induced RF (Radio-Frequency) electrical currents within the material to produce heat. The result is a high efficiency, as heating is only applied where actually needed. The heating effect can be controlled accurately by the heating area, RF power, and duration of the process. Although the basic principles of induction are well known, modern advances in solid state technology have made induction heating a remarkably simple, cost-effective heating method for applications which involve joining, treating, heating, melting, forging, hardening, soldering, tempering, materials testing etc.

 

 

 

 

Schematical view of RF induction heating. The current in the coil generates a magnetic field, which induces a current in the work piece, thus producing heat.

 

  • no source, no intermediate, no heat transfer problems
  • selective and very local heat generation
  • warming piece, not environment
  • non-contact, clean process
  • Electric energy: adjustable, reproducible and measurable
  • large energy density as possible
  • no noise (relative to gas burners)
  • high efficiency
  • high temperatures (up to melting temperature)
  • good temp control (pyrometry), fast response

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