The core reason why steel-shell medium-frequency induction melting furnaces are more energy-efficient than aluminum-shell furnaces lies in their three major advantages: magnetic yoke guidance, sealing and insulation, and structural stability. These significantly improve the conversion efficiency of electrical energy to thermal energy and reduce unnecessary losses. For companies pursuing long-term energy savings, stable production, and high cost-effectiveness, steel-shell furnaces are the superior choice.
1.Magnetic Yoke Design Effectively Reduces Magnetic Leakage and Improves Thermal Efficiency
Steel shell melting furnaces are typically equipped with magnetic yokes made of silicon steel sheets. These yokes can:
Shield and guide the magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil;
Significantly reduce magnetic field leakage;
Concentrate more magnetic energy in the furnace charge (metal), thereby improving heating efficiency.
In contrast, aluminum casings do not have magnetic conductivity and cannot accommodate magnetic yokes or effectively confine the magnetic field, resulting in more energy loss due to magnetic leakage.
According to data, steel-cased furnaces can save 5%–8% or even more energy due to the effect of the magnetic yoke.
2. Better Structural Sealing Reduces Heat Loss
Steel-cased furnace bodies are usually equipped with furnace covers and tighter sealing structures, which can:
Effectively reduce heat loss during the melting process;
Maintain a high-temperature environment inside the furnace, reducing the need for repeated heating.
Aluminum-cased furnaces are mostly open or lightweight structures with poor insulation and sealing, making heat more likely to escape, requiring continuous input of more electrical energy to maintain the temperature.
3. Higher Mechanical Strength Supports Optimized Design
Steel casings have high strength and can withstand greater electromagnetic forces and thermal stresses, therefore:
Allowing for a more compact and efficient coil arrangement;
Supporting prestressed structural reinforcement to reduce operating vibrations and energy loss;
Facilitating the integration of energy-saving components such as water cooling systems, magnetic yokes, and PLC control.
