What is an induction stove: how is the principle of operation – a scheme and service life and how to choose

An induction stove is a contemporary kitchen appliance that cooks food quickly and effectively by utilizing cutting-edge technology. An induction stove, as opposed to a conventional gas or electric stove, uses magnetic fields to directly heat pots and pans, speeding up and improving the accuracy of cooking.

An electromagnetic energy source is used in the induction stove’s operating principle. An electric current flows through a coil underneath the cooking surface of a pot or pan that is compatible with the stove when it is placed there. As a result, the cookware is directly heated by a magnetic field created, keeping the stove surface relatively cool.

Think about things like size, power settings, and extra features like touch controls or timers when selecting an induction stove. It’s also important to consider the stove’s durability and service life, as these can differ based on the model and brand.

What is an induction cooker

Hob induction

The surface of this equipment does not heat up during operation, unlike other types of stoves, which is its main feature. This is due to the fact that the functioning of the stove depends on the energy of the magnetic field. The standard scheme of the stove is the placement of an electromagnetic coil made of copper wire in the burners, which conducts current with a frequency of 20-60 kHz. The effect of this coil is directed directly to the bottom of the cookware intended for cooking on induction cookers. Such utensils are a secondary winding, due to which its bottom conducts an eddy current of induction, due to which the cookware and the products in it are heated, and the stove remains cold.

Diagram illustrating the induction panel’s operating principle

The panel has multiple coils of varying sizes. The special ferromagnetic utensils that were previously mentioned must be placed in order for the induction process to start, and the bottom of the utensil must occupy more than 50% of the heating element. As a result, while cooking, you can place a spoon, knife, and other small objects on the panel without risk.

An illustration of how the stove directly affects the dishes

An additional benefit of this type of stove is that, in contrast to its traditional counterparts, it has a clear temperature adjustment with no deviations. Furthermore, its efficiency is the highest at 90%, compared to 60% for conventional electric stoves and between 30% and 60% for gas stoves.

While the induction hob has drawbacks as well as benefits, its advantages outweigh its drawbacks. Let’s examine the primary benefits:

• the cooking process is accelerated;
• high level of efficiency;
• easy to understand the operation;
• many options are built in to make cooking easier;
• convenient touch control panel;
• the device is compact;
• beautiful, stylish, modern design;
• the walls of the utensils do not heat up, so burns are excluded;
• will fit perfectly into any kitchen layout;
• it is possible to adjust the exact temperature, without noticeable deviations;
• if food gets on the surface, it will not start to burn and smoke, will not leave ingrained marks, as the panel is easy to wash;
• all energy is directed to cooking, as the stove has the ability to accumulate and retain heat;
• only the bottom of the utensils should have the necessary ferromagnetic properties, and its walls can be made of any material, including glass or ceramics.

Like any technology, there are drawbacks in addition to advantages. Let’s take a closer look at them:

• the device makes a humming noise;
• the cost is significantly higher than the price of other types of kitchen stoves;
• this equipment cannot be installed near metal devices, for example, near a dishwasher or refrigerator, since its electromagnetic radiation can disrupt their functioning;
• you can"t make coffee in a Turk, because the panel won"t recognize it and won"t turn on due to the small diameter of the Turk;
• if you use a pacemaker, it"s better to avoid an induction cooker, because it will have a negative effect on the appliance;
• the glass-ceramic surface is easily scratched and cannot be washed with abrasive sponges;
• the cookware needed for cooking is expensive;
• it"s necessary to take into account all the installation details in advance, which may require connecting an additional cable, reworking the wires, since the stove is designed to operate from a 220 V network.

What cookware can be used

Not just specialty stores sell the essential cookware. Copper and aluminum utensils should be thrown out right away. Cast iron and stainless steel cookware will work well. Be mindful of the bottom’s dimensions; a minimum diameter of 120 mm will provide an adequate area for contact. Certain cookware has a symbol on it that indicates it contains ferromagnetic properties.

Cookware’s ferromagnetic properties are indicated by this symbol.

The thickness of the bottom should be at least 2 mm. The price category of special utensils is from 2,000 to 4,000 rubles, depending on the size of the frying pan or saucepan. When you understand the principle of what kind of cookware can be used on an induction hob, decide on the manufacturer. The best brands for the production of such cookware of the highest quality with the corresponding price are the German brand Fissler and the manufacturer Woll (has a non-stick coating, a bottom thickness of 1 cm). Pay attention to the cookware of the Finnish company Hackman or a more budget option from the French manufacturer – Tefal. Many people believe that when purchasing an induction hob, you will need to give up all your favorite cookware and replace it with special ferromagnetic. In fact, some cookware may be suitable, as well as any expensive induction. In order to check whether your cookware is suitable, bring a magnet to its bottom, if it is magnetic, then the cookware is suitable for interaction with an induction cooker. Pay attention to the material from which the cookware is made, if it is enameled steel, cast iron or stainless steel, then you can safely leave such utensils in the list of used. Most people like glass and ceramic cookware, if you have such cookware, then it is possible to turn it into ferromagnetic by attaching a metal disk made of a special alloy to its bottom.

Unique disk possessing ferromagnetic characteristics

An induction stove provides accurate temperature control, quicker cooking times, and energy efficiency by directly heating pots and pans using electromagnetic fields. Selecting the right model for your needs can be aided by knowing how it works, how long it will last, and what to look for when making a purchase.

How to choose the right model

One major disadvantage of modern induction cookers is their high cost, but it’s important to remember that they save electricity, so the high cost is justified. The cost of this type of cooker ranges from 17,000 to 100,000 rubles, based on factors like brand, quality, and functionality. Given the substantial expense, careful consideration should be given to selecting the appropriate model. Remember ahead of time that an induction hob has a ten-year service life, just like its equivalents. The dimensions, features, and designs of each panel vary greatly, despite the fact that they all operate on the same principle.

First, decide on the manufacturers whose models you want to consider. The range of induction cookers on the Russian market is not wide. Based on the opinions of experts and customer reviews, we can say that the best brands are AEG-Electrolux, BOSCH, Hotpoint-Ariston and Gorenje Plus. Next, depending on the size of the kitchen, the number of family members and your own preferences, decide how many burners there should be. Decide in advance what type of installation you need – dependent or independent, and what type – built-in or tabletop. In addition, there are combined devices in which two types of burners are built in – gas and induction. Focus on the number of temperature settings: the most effective models are produced with 16 temperature settings. Pay attention to whether the device has a "Booster" function (power adjustment by transferring it from one burner to another). In addition, there are a number of useful functions, such as automatic shutdown, child lock, boil detection, timer with sound signal, defrost mode, automatic shutdown when liquid is spilled on the panel, etc.. The last important detail is the design. Since the induction panel has a coating that is susceptible to mechanical damage, choose a model with tempered glass, but it will cost more. The range of plates is diverse, so choosing the necessary induction hob in design that will suit the design of your kitchen should not be difficult.

If you’re looking for modern cooking technology, efficiency, and safety, an induction stove is a great option. It directly heats pots and pans using electromagnetic energy, which leads to quicker cooking times and accurate temperature control. This results in minimal heat loss, ease of use, and energy efficiency.

An induction stove’s longevity is mostly determined by its quality and upkeep, although it can last for many years with proper care. Think about things like size, power settings, and material quality when selecting an induction stove. To better meet your needs, search for extra features like touch controls, safety sensors, and several cooking zones.

All things considered, an induction stove is a great addition to any kitchen because it combines innovation and convenience. You can choose a product that fits your cooking needs and lifestyle by being aware of how it works and its main features.

Video on the topic

Induction cooker, do not buy. Disadvantage of induction.