It is a simple RF generator that produces a low amperage, high voltage radio frequency signal at around approximately 4.2Mhz. The signal energy is stored in a "tank circuit" capacitor bank, that when grounded, induces a signal across a copper coil for approximately 6~8 milliseconds once small metal parts have been inserted into ceramic holders in the coil and then de-energizes befofe parts are eiected. Due to the high frequency, the high voltage is induced across the metal parts approximately 5000~6000 times in the 6~8 millisecond run time, causing the metal parts to rapid heat to a glowing state before being ejected through a quench tank and onto a conveyor.
The handler which moves the metal parts runs at approximately 400~800 rpm, which allows up to approximately 1600 parts per minute to be precisely heat threated with controlled penetration, since we are able to fine tune the RF field to concentrate the center of its field at the point in the metal parts at which we want to concentrate the heat treatment.
The parts are induction treated to make them very wear resistant at the points where they need it, while being able to be softer and able to be pressed and spun mechanically to heat treat them further once they are installed on assembly equipment further down the line.
