The performance of electric resistance heat treating furnaces used for forging operations is examined from the point of view of energy economy. Several case studies are evaluated. The design and operation of a newly developed, efficient ″hot crop″ long bar heater is described; it has a capacity of 300 kw and is capable of handling billet sizes from 2 in (50. 8 mm) to 5 in (127 mm) square, and lengths varying from 10 ft (3048 mm) to 15 ft (4572 mm).