ívkemence

Ívkemence is a type of furnace used in industrial processes, particularly in metallurgy and glassmaking. Its primary characteristic is the use of an electric arc to generate the high temperatures required for melting and refining materials. The electric arc is formed between electrodes and the material being heated, or between electrodes within the furnace chamber. This arc creates a plasma that can reach extremely high temperatures, exceeding those typically achieved in combustion furnaces.

The design of an ívkemence can vary, but generally includes a refractory-lined chamber, electrodes, and a power supply system. The electrodes, often made of graphite or carbon, are inserted into the furnace and connected to a high-power electrical source. As the current passes through the electrodes, an arc is established, releasing intense heat. The materials to be processed are placed within the furnace, where they are exposed to this heat and melt.

Ívkemence are known for their efficiency in reaching high temperatures rapidly and their ability to control the temperature precisely. They are employed in the production of steel, ferroalloys, and various types of glass. The absence of combustion byproducts in the heating process also makes them a cleaner alternative in some applications. The specific configuration and operating parameters of an ívkemence are tailored to the material being processed and the desired outcome, such as melting, refining, or heat treatment.