Induction hardening – The application of induction hardening technology in EMAG machines
Using a coil (inductor), an alternating electromagnetic field is generated which induces alternating currents in the workpiece to be hardened. Along with the workpiece’s electrical resistance, this process also creates heat. The heat is generated quickly and precisely within the workpiece itself.
Induction hardening is generally used as a peripheral layer hardening process where the hardening depth and other parameters are manipulated through the frequency of the inductor/coil current. The power supply is designed to optimally match the frequency with the application according to the requirements of the workpiece. In induction hardening, three frequency ranges are commonly distinguished: Low (1 - 7 kHz), medium (8 - 40 kHz), and high (60 - 500 kHz). Power supplies with state-of-the-art converters are used for all three ranges.
For complex workpiece geometries, it may be useful or necessary to have two frequencies active simultaneously. The Simultaneous Dual Frequency (SDF) converter technology developed by EMAG eldec is state of the art in this field. A mid-range frequency is overlaid with a high frequency so that both act upon the workpiece simultaneously.
The MIND-series machines from EMAG eldec are compact induction hardening machines offering high precision and reliability at comparatively low cost.
