Study of Induction Heating of Metal Structures at Increased Frequency

Introduction. One of the conditions for trouble-free operation of moving and rubbing me­tal structures in winter is the absence of ice and snow accumulations in the operating areas of moving components. The same goes for moving agricultural constructions, which, for instance, can freeze to the surface outside the animal houses. In the article, based on the studying a turnout switch there is proposed the development of an innovative, more economical and cheaper method for heating moving parts. Aim of the Study. The study is aimed at creating a technology for heating sliding metal surfaces and at justifying parameters, developing and simplifying equipment design.Materials and Methods. Using a system approach, mathematical analysis and energy ba­lance methods, there were considered the main patterns of thermal processes in the contact zone of sliding metal structures. When considering these processes, there were made some assumptions. Namely, there were not taken into account soil thermal conductivity, air speed, and other physical processes, because they do not have a significant impact on the final results. These assumptions greatly simplify thermal calculations and obtaining the necessary analytical expressions to determine the parameters of induction heating elements.Results. The induction heating method for moving and rubbing metal structures in winter period has been proposed and tested, the main regularities have been revealed and technical characteristics have been determined. High efficiency and convenience of induction heating in comparison with other methods of electric heating have been proved. There have been obtained numerical values of parameters of induction heating elements, which agree with experimental data.Discussion and Conclusion. Based on the developed induction heating scheme, an experimental model with a power of up to 1 000 watts with a frequency of 10 kHz was made. The manufactured experimental model was studied in laboratory and production conditions. The estimated heating power of the part was 334 watts, the measured power was 351 watts. At the same time, the part weighing 20 kg heated up to 60 °C in 40 minutes. During production tests, the part was heated by 50 °C in 40 minutes.The research results can be used to design induction heaters operating at an increased frequency.