Induction Brazing a Steel Collar and Insert

Objective

A company wanted to braze steel components, those being a collar and an insert. They turned to THE LAB at Ambrell to validate the viability of their heating application with induction. They were considering induction because of its repeatability and speed.

Evaluation

THE LAB determined that an Ambrell EKOHEAT 10 kW, 50-150 kHz induction heating power supply with a custom-designed U shaped induction heating coil would work well for this application. Initial tests were conducted to optimize the power delivered to the part and to understand the heating patterns achieved.

Solution

After several changes and iterations on the coil setup testing determined that the heat time would be 75-90 seconds with a 10 kW EKOHEAT power supply. The viability of the application with induction heating was confirmed. 

As mentioned, speed and repeatability were the two primary reasons the client was assessing induction, and induction was beneficial on both fronts. With a torch, operator skill is crucial, making repeatability an issue at times. With induction they will see the same result each time. Induction also delivers less heat into the work environment and there is no open flame, offering a safety benefit. Finally, the expertise of THE LAB allowed the client to have peace-of-mind knowing their application would work prior to making an investment. 

If you have an application you'd like tested by THE LAB at Ambrell, contact us today to take advantage of complimentary induction heating application testing. We'll send your parts back for inspection, along with providing a video showing you the heating process. You can even visit us at one of our two applications lab to view the testing in-person.