Working Principle and Benefits of Induction Stove for Cooking

How does the Induction stove work?

• Induction cooking heats a cooking vessel by electrical induction, instead of by thermal conduction from a flame, or an electrical heating element
• The cooking vessel must be made of or contain a ferromagnetic metal such as cast iron or stainless steel.
• Heat is coming from within the pan, making this method of cooking a lot more efficient
• Therefore we need to ensure that your pans are suitable to use on an induction hob
• Non-magnetic conductive material ( copper or aluminum) pans can not work
• Additional layers of ferrous (magnetic) materials are added at the bottom

 

• An induction stove, also known as an induction cooktop, operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction to generate heat and cook food.
• It is a modern and energy-efficient alternative to traditional gas and electric stoves.
• The working principle of an induction stove involves several key components and steps:

Induction Coil:

• Beneath the ceramic or glass surface of the induction stove, there is a coiled copper wire known as the induction coil.
• When an alternating current (AC) flows through this coil, it generates a changing magnetic field around it.

Cookware:

1. For the induction stove to work, the cookware used must be made of a magnetic material, such as iron or steel. Non-magnetic materials like aluminum or copper will not work with induction cooktops.

Magnetic Field Interaction:

• When the induction stove is turned on and a pot or pan made of a magnetic material is placed on the cooking zone, the changing magnetic field generated by the coil induces electrical currents within the cookware.

Eddy Currents for Heat Generation:

• These induced electrical currents are called eddy currents. According to Lenz’s law, the direction of the eddy currents opposes the change in the magnetic field that induces them.
• This opposition generates heat within the cookware.

Heat Generation:

• The resistance of the cookware to the eddy currents creates friction between the molecules of the cookware material. This friction generates heat, warming up the cookware itself.

Transfer of Heat:

• The heat generated in the cookware is then transferred to the food being cooked through direct contact. Since the cookware itself is being heated, it heats up the contents within, similar to how a traditional gas or electric stove heats cookware.

Precise Control:

• Induction stoves offer precise temperature control due to their responsive nature.
• They can quickly adjust the amount of energy supplied to the induction coil, resulting in rapid changes in heat output.
• Induction Heating with an iron pan 

• Induction Heating Process

 

 

What is the Power consumption of an Induction stove?

• The power consumption of an induction stove can vary based on several factors, including the specific model of the stove, the power settings being used, the duration of cooking, and the efficiency of the induction technology.
• However, I can provide you with a general idea of the power consumption range for induction stoves.

Power Rating 

• Typically, induction stoves have power ratings that range from around 1,200 watts to 3,700 watts or more for each cooking zone.
• These power ratings represent the maximum power that the stove can use when cooking at its highest setting.
• When you use an induction stove, the power consumption depends on the power setting you choose. For instance:

• Low power settings
  • e.g., simmering or keeping food warm) will consume less electricity.
• High power settings
  • e.g., boiling or searing) will consume more electricity.
• To estimate the power consumption of an induction stove, you can use the following formula to find electric power consumption:

                       Power Consumption (in kilowatts) = Power Rating (in watts) × Cooking Time (in hours)

• Keep in mind that this is a simplified estimate, as the power usage might fluctuate due to factors like temperature adjustments, cooking techniques, and energy-saving features of the stove.

Variable Power Levels:

• Induction stoves offer the flexibility to choose from different power levels when cooking. For example, you might have settings like low, medium, high, and sometimes specific power levels for certain cooking tasks like simmering or boiling

Less Power Loss 

• Induction stoves are generally more energy-efficient compared to traditional electric stoves because they heat the cookware directly, resulting in less heat loss to the surrounding environment.
• Additionally, their responsive nature allows for more precise temperature control, which can help prevent unnecessary energy use.
• If you’re concerned about energy consumption, you can also look for energy-efficient induction stoves that have features like a power boost, automatic shut-off, and energy-saving modes.
• It’s important to refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and user manual for accurate information on power consumption for a specific induction stove model.

What are the Components of an Induction Stove?

• Induction coil
• Fan
• Electric control

What materials are used on the Induction stove?

• Iron-rich materials are suitable to use on an induction base. Mild steel and stainless steel pans work well on induction.
• Non-magnetic conductive material ( copper or aluminum) pans can not work. Please do not try heating with aluminum or plastic materials

Advantages of Induction Stoves:

• Energy Efficiency: Induction stoves are highly efficient as they directly heat the cookware, minimizing heat loss to the surroundings.
• Rapid Heating: They can heat up quickly due to the direct transfer of heat from the cookware.
• Safety: The surface of the cooktop remains relatively cool, reducing the risk of burns. Additionally, the stove automatically turns off when no cookware is detected on the surface.
• Easy Cleaning: Since the surface doesn’t get as hot as traditional stoves, spills are less likely to burn onto the surface, making cleaning easier.

Limitations Of Induction Heating

• Cookware Requirement: Only magnetic cookware can be used, limiting the choice of pots and pans.
• Initial Cost: Induction stoves can be more expensive to purchase initially compared to traditional stoves.
• Electronics Sensitivity: They are sensitive to electronics placed nearby, as strong electromagnetic fields might interfere with electronic devices.

Best Induction Stoves in the Market in Indian Budget

• As our knowledge update is available on Amazon given in the post, we can provide you with a list of some popular and reliable induction stoves available in the Indian market at that time.
• Please note that the availability and popularity of specific models may have changed since then, so it’s essential to check the latest reviews and product offerings before making a purchase.
• Here are some well-regarded brands and models:

1. Philips Viva Collection HD4928/01:
   • Philips is a reputable brand known for its quality products. The HD4928/01 offers multiple cooking modes and a user-friendly interface.
2. Prestige PIC 20.0:
   • Prestige is a trusted name in kitchen appliances. The PIC 20.0 is a budget-friendly induction cooktop with various features, including Indian menu options.
3. Pigeon by Stovekraft Cruise:
   • The Pigeon Cruise induction cooktop is known for its reliability and budget-friendliness. It comes with preset menus for Indian cooking.
4. Bajaj Majesty ICX 7:
   • Bajaj is a well-known brand in India, and the Majesty ICX 7 offers a range of cooking options and a timer function.
5. Usha Cook Joy (3616):
   • Usha’s Cook Joy is a versatile induction cooktop with multiple cooking modes and a compact design.
6. Havells Insta Cook PT 1600:
   • Havells is a reputable brand, and the Insta Cook PT 1600 comes with various cooking functions and a touch control panel.
7. Butterfly Smart Glass 2 Burner:
   • While not strictly an induction stove, this is a hybrid appliance with one induction and one gas burner, providing versatility for cooking.
8. Glen GL 3070:
   • Glen is known for its kitchen appliances. The GL 3070 is a sleek and compact induction cooktop with touch controls.
9. Siemens EH601FB17E:
   • If you’re looking for a premium option, Siemens offers high-quality induction cooktops with advanced features.
10. IKEA Tillreda:
    • IKEA’s Tillreda is a portable induction cooktop suitable for small kitchens or for use as an extra burner. It’s a simple and affordable option.

Summary

Overall, the induction stove’s working principle capitalizes on the concept of electromagnetic induction to provide efficient and precise cooking with various advantages over conventional cooking methods.