The temperature control of a resistance furnace involves adjusting the heat source energy supplied to the furnace in order to stabilize the furnace temperature within a given temperature range. This is done to meet the requirements of the heat treatment process.
There are several methods for temperature control in resistance furnaces. One common method is to control the I2R or V2/R losses. This can be achieved by switching the furnace voltage ON and OFF intermittently. By comparing the actual furnace temperature with the desired temperature, a deviation is obtained. This deviation is then processed to generate a control signal that adjusts the thermal power of the resistance furnace, thereby controlling the furnace temperature. This type of control is known as feedback adjustment and is commonly implemented using a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control algorithm. PID control is widely used in process control.
Another method for temperature control is by varying the voltage across the furnace. This can be done by changing the transformer tappings or using an auto-transformer or induction regulator for variable voltage supply. However, this method is not economical for large furnaces as power is continuously wasted in the controlling resistance. Therefore, it is more commonly used in small furnaces.
Additionally, temperature can be controlled by varying the resistance of the elements in the furnace or by adjusting the ratio of on and off times of the power supply. These methods allow for fine-tuning of the heat developed in the furnace.
In summary, the temperature control of a resistance furnace involves adjusting the heat source energy supplied to the furnace through various methods such as controlling I2R or V2/R losses, varying the voltage or resistance, and adjusting the on and off times of the power supply. These control methods ensure that the furnace temperature remains stable within the desired range for efficient heat treatment processes.
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