Induktionsovne

Induktionsovne, also known as induction furnaces, are electric furnaces that use electromagnetic induction to heat conductive materials. The principle behind their operation is Faraday's law of induction, which states that a changing magnetic field will induce an electric current in a conductor. In an induction furnace, an alternating current flows through a coil, creating a fluctuating magnetic field. When a conductive material, such as metal, is placed within this magnetic field, eddy currents are induced within it. The resistance of the material causes these eddy currents to generate heat, thereby melting or heating the material.

Induktionsovne are widely used in various industrial applications, particularly in metallurgy and metal processing. They are employed for melting and refining ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including steel, aluminum, copper, and precious metals. Their efficiency and precise temperature control make them suitable for producing high-quality alloys and castings. The heating process is rapid and uniform, minimizing contamination and oxidation compared to other heating methods.

There are two main types of induction furnaces: coreless induction furnaces and channel induction furnaces. Coreless furnaces are more versatile and are used for melting a wide range of metals. They consist of a crucible surrounded by a water-cooled copper coil. Channel furnaces, on the other hand, have a channel or loop through which the molten metal circulates and is heated by the induced currents. These are typically used for holding molten metal or for melting lower melting point metals like aluminum and zinc. The absence of a direct heating element means that induction furnaces are generally cleaner and more environmentally friendly.