Finite Element Analysis of Cold Crucible Configurations for Efficient Induction Heating of a Large Range of Molten Glass Volumes with the Same Inductor and Electric Supply

Abstract

Based on finite element models, this paper investigates different cold crucible configurations for efficient induction heating of molten glass charges with volumes in a large range by using a unique inductor and electric supply.The performances of cold crucible induction furnaces with a new one-segment annular cold crucibles for molten glass charges with diameter independent on the charge volume or for charges that conserves the ratio charge diameter / height are compared with those of the usual furnace with multi-segment round tubes cold crucible.