On-Site Heat Treatment Service:
How Does Induction Heating Work?

In specific applications, induction heating offers a more efficient alternative to traditional heating methods like electrical resistance or open flame. The process uses electromagnetic fields to heat conductive materials directly, making it an ideal choice for the oil, gas, and energy industries where precision, speed, and control are vital.

So, how does induction heating work? Induction heating passes an alternating magnetic field through a conductive material, generating localized electrical currents known as Eddy currents. These currents encounter the metal’s electrical resistance, causing heat through Joule heating. The material’s electrical resistance and magnetic properties influence the amount of heat produced. Additional heat is generated due to hysteresis losses, which result from resistance to changing magnetic fields in the ferrous makeup of the metal. Among other factors, the depth of heating depends on how quickly the magnetic field alternates. Increasing the magnetic field strength, either by using multiple coil turns or positioning the conductors closer to the material while also changing the kVa output, can intensify heat application to a desired result.

Safety and temperature uniformity are other significant benefits. Traditional heat sources expose workers to open flames, explosive gases, and dangerously hot elements. Induction heating, by contrast, provides a favorable work environment for welders, as heating coils remain cool throughout the duration of the heat cycle. It also produces a HAZ (heat-affected zone) that is evenly controlled throughout the component as the workpiece, in essence, becomes the heating element.

By renting Miller ProHeat™ 35 induction heating equipment, you gain control over your schedules and costs, empowering your skilled trades without relying on third-party heat treatment contractors. This control helps prevent project delays and unexpected costs. Induction heating reduces the time it takes to reach the required procedural preheat temperature, leading to the faster completion of welds and other heat treatment tasks. This, in turn, reduces overall tool time to achieve similar objectives.