Reactive Elements Control in LC Series Resonant Inverters by Current-Controlled Variable-Transformer and Magnetic Energy Recovery Switch for Induction Heating

This work consists of the analysis and design of a LC series resonant inverter with reactive element control for induction heating hardening applications. This novel method uses a current-controlled variable transformer (VT) to control the reflected inductance of the inductor in the resonant, and a magnetic energy recovery switch (MERS) to vary the influence of the capacitor as a reactive power compensation element. This converter topology allows quality factor (Q) or operating frequency (fsw) to be adjusted, making it possible to harden workpieces of different geometries and materials with a single converter. In the article, the design of both elements will be studied and tested. Experimental results were carried out with a 10 kW induction heating inverter prototype, with a frequency range of 60 kHz to 100 kHz and a quality factor of 6 to 10, measuring efficiencies above 95%.