Can a 15KW High-Frequency Induction Machine Be Used for Hot Forging

The 15KW high-frequency induction machine is fully capable of hot forging, with its technical characteristics highly aligned with hot forging requirements. Detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Core Advantages: Precise Alignment with Hot Forging Needs

1. Rapid Heating Capability

The 15KW high-frequency induction machine utilizes electromagnetic induction principles to heat metals (e.g., stainless steel) from room temperature to forging temperature (~1050°C) in 8–15 seconds, improving heating efficiency by 60% compared to traditional flame heating and significantly shortening production cycles.

Case Example: When processing U-shaped stainless steel spoon handles at a tableware factory, the temperature difference between heated and unheated zones exceeded 800°C, ensuring the handle retained its original shape and avoiding structural deformation caused by uniform heating.

2. Localized Heating Precision

Customized induction coils (e.g., U-shaped designs) concentrate energy on the target forging area, keeping non-processed zones at ≤50°C, achieving "focused heating and rapid response."

Applications: U-shaped pot handle forging in kitchenware, hot forming of U-shaped pipe fittings in sanitary ware, and hot stamping of stainless steel U-brackets in medical devices.

3. Material Protection and Quality Enhancement

Rapid heating reduces metal-oxygen contact time, cutting scale formation to 1/3 of traditional processes, lowering surface roughness (Ra) from 12.5μm to 3.2μm, and reducing subsequent polishing costs by 40%.

Result: A hardware tool factory improved the hot stamping pass rate of U-shaped stainless steel components from 78% to 97% after adopting this process.

II. Technical Parameters and Process Compatibility

1. Power and Frequency Range

The 15KW power rating suits stainless steel forging with thicknesses of 2–5mm, while frequencies of 60–100kHz enable flexible switching between deep penetration heating and rapid surface heating.

Comparison: While 25KW units are better suited for thicker workpieces or higher throughput demands, the 15KW model offers cost-effectiveness for small-to-medium-scale hot forging.

2. Temperature Control and Automation

Equipped with infrared thermometers for real-time monitoring, the system automatically cuts power upon reaching target temperatures (e.g., 1050°C) to prevent grain coarsening from overheating.

It supports timed settings for heating, holding, and cooling phases to meet batch production requirements.

III. Industry Applications and Cost-Effectiveness

1. Typical Application Sectors

Hardware Tools: Forging of manual tools like pliers, axes, and hammers.

Automotive Parts: Heat treatment of components such as axles, leaf springs, and forks.

Aerospace: Hot forging of high-precision mechanical parts to meet extreme reliability demands.

2. Comprehensive Cost Advantages

Energy Efficiency: Consumes 30% less power than tube-type equipment and 20% less than silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) medium-frequency systems.

Maintenance: Simplified coil design ensures long-term stability with routine cleaning and insulation checks.

Space Savings: Compact dimensions (e.g., 225mm × 480mm × 450mm) minimize footprint and enable easy relocation.