Induction-Heating Metal Process
Induction refers to the process of heating metal through the use of an alternating magnetic field. This process involves passing an electric current through a coil, which creates a magnetic field that induces an electrical current in the metal being heated. The electrical current generates heat in the metal, which can then be used for various purposes, including melting, forging, and heat treatment.
The principle of induction furnaces
A high voltage electrical source from a primary coil induces a low voltage, high current in the metal. The heart of the coreless induction furnace is the coil, which consists of a hollow section of heavy duty, high conductivity copper tubing which is wound into a helical coil. Coil shape is contained within a steel shell and magnetic shielding is used to prevent heating of the supporting shell. To protect it from overheating, the coil is water-cooled, the water being recirculated and cooled in a cooling tower. The shell is supported on trunnions on which the furnace tilts to facilitate pouring.
Operating frequencies range from utility frequency (50 or 60 Hz) to 400 kHz or higher, usually depending on the material being melted, the capacity (volume) of the furnace and the melting speed required. Generally, the smaller the volume of the melts, the higher the frequency of the furnace used. For the same conductivity, the higher frequencies have a shallow skin depth—that is less penetration into the melt. Lower frequencies can generate stirring or turbulence in the metal.
Induction furnaces are used in the precious metals industry to melt metals for casting or other processes. These furnaces come in various sizes and types, including small-scale casting furnaces and large-scale industrial furnaces. They are highly efficient and can quickly and accurately melt precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. Induction furnaces use a closed-loop system, which allows for precise control of the melting process and ensures consistent quality of the finished product.
Induction forging is another process used in the precious metals industry. This process involves using induction heating to heat metal to its forging temperature, allowing it to be shaped and formed. Induction forging is used for various metals, including precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. It is an efficient and precise method of forging, which can result in high-quality finished products.
Induction brazing is a process used in the precious metals industry to join two pieces of metal using a filler material. This process uses induction heating to heat the metal to be brazed to a specific temperature, and then the filler material is added to create the joint. Induction brazing is a highly precise and efficient process, which results in strong and durable joints. It is used for precious metals, as well as other types of metals.
Induction annealing is a process used in the precious metals industry to make metal softer and more ductile. This process involves using induction heating to heat the metal to a specific temperature and then slowly cooling it down. It is used for various types of metals, including precious metals like gold and silver. The process can improve the workability of metals and make them easier to shape and form.
Induction hardening is a process used in the metals industry to make metal harder and more durable. This process involves using induction heating to heat the metal to a specific temperature and then quickly cooling it down. The process is used for various types of metals, including precious metals like gold and silver. It can improve the wear resistance of metals and make them more durable.
Induction melting is a process used in the precious metals industry to melt metal for casting or other processes. This process involves using induction heating to melt the metal, which can then be poured into molds or granulator (to produce metal grains). Induction melting is used for various types of metals, including precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, etc. It is an efficient and precise method of melting bullion bars, jewelry alloys, dental alloys, etc., and can result in high-quality finished products.
In conclusion, induction is a versatile process used in the precious metals industry for various purposes, including melting, forging, and heat treatment. These processes are highly efficient and precise, resulting in high-quality finished products.
