Induction type forge?

Newer technology, just hasnt been widely adopted yet. The machines are a bit expensive are really only good for forging, can't HT with them...

Those are the reasons I can think of, right off the bat. That said, i'd like to have one!
 
The coils are very shape specific.
Not as easy to use as turning on a forge.
Expensive to purchase and operate.
 
I do know at least one bladesmith who uses one to make custom crucible steel melts, which is pretty cool...
 
I am seeing 15kw with cooler units for less than 1500.

The fuel savings seem relative.

I would have to have multiple coil assemblies.

I doubt that holding at or near max output for periods suitable for HT would be feasible without going full industrial scale; without intent of production, not cost effective.
 
Steve Schwarzer, David Lisch, and Ed Caffrey have all posted within the year about using induction coils for some heating tasks. Might check their sites and social media for some reviews.
 
If you can afford one, it's a great tool to have and you'd probably use it frequently.
It's not a great tool for forging different size stock though so not great to have instead of a forge.
 
During a recent class and JS test at Ed Caffrey's shop he took the time to show me his induction forge. Interesting setup! He showed me a couple of small knives he'd forged with it. It heated steel to forging temps between 60 to 90 seconds. You might drop him an email or get ahold of him through his new Forum. You can access both through his webb site. He was more than happy to share information it.
 
weo said:
Moreso than any other forging?
Probably task dependent.
Click to expand...
I was hoping that I could use induction to get pattern welded damascus billets layered yp or at least San or Go mia billets. I can custom form tubing and most other raceway from being a Journeyman Wireman for over 20 yrs, so, the coil itself is so in my wheelhouse.
 
This sounds pretty cool. Although I think for people that do forge welding, they would likely want to stick with their more traditional forges. Just because they can achieve a deoxygenated atmosphere much easier doing it like that I would think.

Thinking a bit more about it, I wonder how much worse decarb would be for regular forging using these? If it would be a noticeable amount, or just slightly worse. Because that will definitely be more time at heat in an oxygenated environment, for potential decarb to take place.
 
Well, since the induction needs no oxygen; Perhaps a form of compartmentalized coil under positive pressure of a heavy, inert gas may be the direction for cheaper and faster cycles. I am beginning to warm up to the ribbon burner for starting out. I have my plate full with learning how it has been done.
 
Bob Kramer uses one in his shop for billets. It was pretty cool seeing it in use. It’s just crazy how fast they can heat up material.
 
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