Estimation of the Basic Induction Process Parameters

Estimation of process parameters for selective heating and heat treating of simple- and complex-shaped workpieces in induction hardening can be accurately carried out using numerical simulation techniques such as the finite-element analysis and the finite-different method. Along with the significant benefits of modern numerical simulations, it is important to be able to use rough estimation techniques to develop a general understanding of the critical parameters of a particular induction heating system. This article discusses such numerical techniques for estimating the critical parameters: workpiece power estimation; estimation of electrical and thermal efficiency of the coil; and frequency selection for heating solid cylinders, tubes, pipes, slabs, plates, strips, and rectangular workpieces.