Induktivmelttaus

Induktivmelttaus, also known as induction melting, is a process used to melt metals and other materials using electromagnetic induction. This method involves placing the material to be melted within a coil through which an alternating electric current flows. The oscillating magnetic field generated by the coil induces eddy currents within the conductive material. These eddy currents, due to the electrical resistance of the material, generate heat through Joule heating, causing the material to melt.

The process is highly efficient as the heat is generated directly within the material itself, minimizing energy loss to the surroundings. Induction melting can achieve very high temperatures, making it suitable for melting refractory metals and alloys with high melting points. The process is also controllable, allowing for precise temperature management and rapid heating or cooling rates. Induction furnaces are commonly used in foundries for casting, in the production of high-purity metals, and in laboratories for research and development. The absence of direct contact with a heating element means the molten material is not contaminated by combustion products or the heating source. Different types of induction furnaces exist, including coreless induction furnaces, which are more versatile, and channel induction furnaces, which are often used for holding molten metal. The frequency of the alternating current used in the induction coil influences the depth of penetration of the eddy currents and thus the heating efficiency.