Design and multiphysics analysis of an active-passive thermal protection strategy for transverse flux induction heating of moving strips
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Transverse flux induction heating (TFIH) offers distinct advantages in the field of metal strip heat treatment. However, optimizing its heating performance and ensuring the stable operation of the inductor requires a comprehensive multiphysics coupled analysis. To address the excessive inductor temperature rise caused by narrow air gaps in novel coil designs during high-temperature strip processing, this paper proposes a thermal protection strategy that combines active internal water cooling with passive composite thermal insulation. Forced water passages inside the hollow copper turns evacuate internal ohmic dissipation, while thin multi-layer ceramic-vacuum boards intercept intense radiative and convective heat fluxes from the moving strip. A finite element model of TFIH for moving strips is developed, accounting for strip motion, temperature-dependent material properties, water cooling, and thermal insulation. This modeling approach is experimentally validated using a low-power diamond-coil prototype. Subsequently, the validated method is applied to simulate a TFIH system featuring a novel dual-hexagonal-coil structure. Results demonstrate that the dual-hexagonal-coil structure significantly improves the thermal uniformity of the strip. Furthermore, the proposed protection measure not only prevents inductor overheating but also minimizes heat loss from the strip, producing a measurable rise in the delivered strip temperature without increasing input power. This study provides a valuable technical framework for the design and optimization of TFIH devices.
Authors: Jiangpai Peng, Youhua Wang, Chengcheng Liu
Institution: Hebei University of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,620
OpenAlex ID: W7223173155