Power Source used in Induction Heating
- The power source required for induction heating process depends upon the nature of application and the amount of power required. The power source also depends upon the type of material and size of the object.
- For large size objects of magnetic materials the range of frequency required is 1-10 kHz. For such applications electrical circuit generators i.e. alternators can be used.
- But for small size objects and non-magnetic materials the frequency range used is 450 kHz, which is high because the depth of penetration required is small.
- So to obtain high frequency output, electronic oscillator circuits are used. For some special applications, very high frequency i.e. 30 MHz may be used.
- Electronic oscillators are preferred over alternators as they are more steady, portable and nearly automatic in operation. Tuned plate oscillator is the commonly used power source for induction heating process.
- Sometimes a series inverter using SCRs is also used as a power source for induction heating.