Good preparation is key to a successful weld.
For some welding processes, preheating the metal is part of the preparation, and induction heating is one of the methods used to prepare a metal for welding.
Here, we detail what induction heating is, and the benefits it has over other heating methods.
The Benefits
What is Induction Heating?
Induction heating is a form of non-contact heating.
Equipment is connected to or placed around an object that conducts electricity, which creates an electromagnetic field that agitates the part’s molecules, creating heat.
Uniform Temperature
In induction heating, heat is delivered through a wound coil or a blanket.
Through this method, the heat generated is distributed across the object evenly and consistently.
If heating through flame, a physical motion is needed to pass the flame over the material, which can be difficult to regulate.
Resistance heating can be unreliable as the pads don’t always touch fully, causing inconsistent heat and undue pressure.
Improved Energy Efficiency
With induction heating, utility costs are generally much less than other heating methods.
Most of the electricity used is entirely going towards heating the part, as opposed to open flame heating where a lot of heat is lost going out into the open air.
Increased Versatility
One of the best qualities of induction heating is its versatility.
Due to the way it delivers the heat, it can be used on projects of all shapes and sizes, and, if you’re using the coils, they can be adjusted during the heating process to adjust for any tricky areas.
Faster Time-To-Temperature
With some preheating procedures, outside assistance is required to undertake them.
With induction heating, welders can carry out this process themselves, speeding up the process.
As well as this, the time-to-temperature on induction heating is minutes compared to a other processes, which can take hours.
Improved Safety
With flame and resistance heating, objects and materials are heated from the outside in, meaning that the risks of burn injuries is high.
In the worst case, an open flame also brings the risk of an explosion, and the pads used in resistance heating stay extremely hot for a long while after the material has been brought to temperature.
Obviously, induction heating still carries the risk of a burn injury, but it’s a much lower risk as only the workpiece gets hot, and the coils, blankets and other accessories stay at room temperature.
Induction Heating Equipment at RentArc
At RentArc, we have the excellent Miller ProHeat 35 induction heating system that delivers leading preheating applications.
You can view the ProHeat here.
If you need any welding, cutting or positioning equipment and would like a quote or to discuss our lease purchase finance options, please get in touch.
We’re always happy to discuss which option best suits your circumstances and requirements. You can call us on +44 (0)23 80 867 789 or email us at info@rentarc.com.