Induction Melting Glass For Fiber Drawing

Objective  To heat a metal susceptor vessel to 2200°F within 25 minutes for a fiberglass melting application

Material  Metal susceptor vessel
Temperature  2200°F

Frequency 300KHZ

Equipment Power of 60 kW RF power supply, remote heat station and a specially-designed induction coil.
Process  A specially-designed induction coil, shaped to conform to the metal vessel, was used to deliver uniform heat to the vessel. Initial tests were conducted to establish a heating pattern and time-to-temperature. RF power was applied for 22 minutes and the vessel reached a temperature of 2,200°F. An additional 3kW power supply was suggested for use when the glass in the vessel is emptied through the drain tube.
Results  Uniform and repeatable results were achieved with the UIHM power supply and coil. The vessel can be maintained at 2200°F so that glass can be melted for fiber drawing.