Induction heating is a method of heating a workpiece. Induction heating involves applying an AC electric signal to a conductor adapted to produce a magnetic field, such as a loop or coil. The alternating current in the conductor produces a varying magnetic flux. The conductor is placed near a metallic object to be heated so that the magnetic field passes through the object. Electrical currents are induced in the metal by the magnetic flux. The metal is heated by the flow of electricity induced in the metal by the magnetic field.
Most previous induction heating systems have been large, fixed systems that are located in a foundry or other manufacturing facility. These induction heating systems may be used as part of a mass-production process. As such, dedicated operators may be available to operate and monitor these systems on a continuous basis. On the other hand, portable induction heating systems may be used in remote locations and may not have an operator present to monitor the operation of the system on a continuous basis.
There is a need for an induction heating system that may be used in remote locations and which responds automatically to protect the system when error conditions are detected by the system. Additionally, there is a need for an induction heating system that provides an alarm and/or indications to indicate the presence of an error condition.