Red-D-Arc induction heating solutions: advantages in storage-tank building

Storage tanks benefit from induction heating.

Storage-tank fabrication involves two crucial welding processes that ensure final tank quality and durability: preheating and post-weld heat treatment. Preheating means heating material to a specific temperature before welding, while post-weld treatment is essential for stress relief and bake-out. Red-D-Arc Welderentals makes these processes more efficient, accurate, fast, controlled, and cost-effective with its induction heating solutions. A recent Red-D-Arc blog entry discusses the benefits of these heating systems.

Alternating current through a conductor

Induction heating is a non-contact technique that heats metal parts by inducing currents in the work piece. In an induction-heating system, alternating current flows through a conductor, which creates an alternating magnetic field. The piece is exposed to this field, resulting in localized eddy currents in the piece. The metal’s inherent electrical resistance to the current flow resists the eddy current, so the piece heats up. Hysteresis, a phenomenon caused by this resistance, enhances the heating of the piece.

Unlike resistance and open-flame heating, induction heating needs no external heating elements; the piece generates heat from within. Induction heating solutions usually include power sources/controls that supply alternating current and provide digital control and copper coil cables, which are the conductors places on or around the parts.

Induction heating solutions are the best choice for heating storage tanks. Red-D-Arc cites the following benefits:

• Uniformity of heating. Induction heating never heats one portion of the work piece at a higher temperature than another portion. Every area generates heat simultaneously.
• Precise temperature control. Through digital controls, users get exacting control over temperature, time, and cooling rates.
• Reduced cycle time. Induction heaters save up to 80 per cent of heating time, regardless of the piece’s shape or thickness.
• Versatility. Induction heating works for various storage-tank sizes and shapes.
• Energy efficiency. Up to 92 per cent of electrical energy used in this method translates to actual heat energy.
• Reduced costs on consumables. Induction heaters require no gas or ceramic fibre.
• Ease of use. Induction-heating systems are easy to set up, use, and adjust.
• Safety. No potentially harmful fumes are produced.

To learn more, contact Red-D-Arc.

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