Simulation and Implementation of an Induction Heating System for Heating Brittle Thin Metal Sheets by Various Excitation Current Frequencies

The induction heating process is a highly nonlinear problem due to its connection with various factors. The complex nature of this issue presents a notable difficulty for mathematical analysis and requires a simplification. Additionally, deriving parameters from spatial geometry can be a challenging undertaking in most instances. This paper deals with a simulation model of the induction heating problemThe finite element method within COMSOL Multiphysics is utilized to simulate the induction heating characteristics of fragile metal sheets subjected to different currents and frequencies from an Archimedean spiral coil. This serves as an effective solution for intricate constructions. To distinguish between partial influences, the coil model is modified to closely mirror the actual coil's geometry. The simulation process includes two phases. The former situation is attained by evaluating heating process by gradually increasing the excitation current frequency in frequency domain analysis and the latter scenario is achieved by implementing constant frequency current in a frequency transient condition and assessing the heating procedure within the model. Therefore, in both instances, the simulation model offers crucial insights into the nonlinear electromagnetic and thermal properties of the the workpiece material. To confirm the results of the simulation model, a laboratory prototype is constructed, and comparison between experimental temperature measurements and simulation results is conducted.