Talk:Induction Furnace

Induction Furnace Development Update

We have made significant progress on the parametric Induction Furnace model in FreeCAD. This update covers the high-LOD enhancements, a focused core generator, a real-world Bill of Materials, and step-by-step build instructions.

Model Overview

We have developed two generator scripts to cater to different needs:

Full System Model

• Script: `generators/machines.py`
• Command: `python3 cli.py furnace`
• Description: A complete industrial setup including the structural frame, concrete platform, safety railings, hydraulic tilting mechanism, and full control panel.
• High-LOD Features:

      **Hydraulics:** Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) with reservoir, motor, valve block, and hoses connecting to the tilt cylinder.
      **Electronics:** Detailed ZVS Driver module with PCB, heatsinks, capacitor bank, and choke inductors mounted on an open-frame rack.
      **Cooling:** Explicit water cooling loop with pump, radiator, fan, tank, and hoses.
      **Hardware:** Hex bolt heads at frame joints and pivot points.
      **Casting:** Double-crucible system (Inner Melting Pot + Outer Chamber) with a pouring spout and steel ramp.

Focused Core Model

• Script: `generators/induction_furnace_core.py`
• Command: `python3 cli.py furnace-core`
• Description: A simplified model focusing strictly on the functional components required for melting.
• Components:

   *   Induction Circuit (ZVS, Bus Bars)
   *   Heat Dissipation System (Radiator, Pump, Tank)
   *   Coil (Copper Tubing)
   *   Melt Chamber (Outer Crucible)
   *   Feeder (Hopper)
   *   Crucible (Inner Pot)

Bill of Materials (BOM)

We have sourced real-world parts for the core components. Prices are estimates.

Component	Model Specs	Real-World Part	Approx Price
Crucible	300mm Dia x 400mm H	Graphite Crucible #50-#100 (Industrial)	$150 - $300
Induction Coil	170mm Radius, 16mm Tube	5/8" Soft Copper Tubing (50ft Coil)	$80 - $120
Radiator	150x150mm	120mm Computer Water Cooling Radiator	$20 - $40
Pump	12V Centrifugal	12V Water Cooling Pump (PC/Industrial)	$20 - $50
Hydraulics	150mm Stroke	Hydraulic Cylinder 150mm Stroke	$50 - $100
Bus Bars	20x100mm Copper	Copper Bus Bar 1/8" x 1"	$30 - $60

Build Instructions

A detailed assembly guide has been generated.

Phase 1: Structural & Core

• Assemble the concrete platform and safety railings.
• Erect the main steel frame and install insulation blocks.
• Insert the Outer Crucible (Chamber) and Inner Crucible (Pot).

Phase 2: Induction & Cooling

• Wind the 5/8" copper tubing to form the coil and mount it over the chamber.
• Install the Radiator, Fan, Pump, and Tank.
• Plumb the cooling loop: Pump -> Radiator -> Coil -> Tank -> Pump.

Phase 3: Electronics & Power

• Mount the Control Panel and Electronics Rack.
• Install the ZVS Driver, Capacitor Bank, and Inductors.
• Connect the ZVS output to the Coil using Copper Bus Plates.
• Connect the Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) to the tilt cylinder.

Resources

• **Source Code:** `Antigravity_24_Freecad/generators/`
• **Output Models:** `Antigravity_24_Freecad/outputs/InductionFurnace.FCStd`