Design concepts of induction mass heating technology based on multiple-criteria optimization

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe main ideas and demonstrate results of the research activities carried out by the authors in the field of design concepts of induction mass heating technology based on multiple-criteria optimization. The main goal of the studies is the application of different optimization methods and numerical finite element method (FEM) codes for field analysis to solve the multi-objective optimization problem that is mathematically formulated in terms of the most important optimization criteria, for example, maximum temperature uniformity, maximum energy efficiency and minimum scale formation. Design/methodology/approach – Standard genetic algorithm (GA), non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA) and alternance method of parametric optimization based on the optimal control theory are applied as effective tools for the practice-oriented problems for multiple-criteria optimization of induction heaters’ design based on non-linear coupled electromagnetic and temperature field analysis. Different approaches are used for combining FEM codes for interconnected field analysis and optimization algorithms into the automated optimization procedure. Findings – Optimization procedures are tested and investigated for two- and three-criteria optimization problems solution on the examples of induction heating of a graphite disk, induction heating of aluminum and steel billets prior to hot forming. Practical implications – Solved problems are based on the design of practical industrial applications. The developed optimization procedures are planned to be applied to the wide range of real-life problems of the optimal design and control of different electromagnetic devices and systems. Originality/value – The paper describes main ideas and results of the research activities carried out by the authors during past years in the field of multiple-criteria optimization of induction heaters’ design based on numerical coupled electromagnetic and temperature field analysis. Implementing the automated procedure that combines a numerical FEM code for coupled field analysis with an optimization algorithm and its subsequent application for designing induction heaters makes the proposed approach specific and original. The paper also demonstrates that different optimization strategies used (standard GA, NSGA-II and the alternance method of optimal control theory) are effective for real-life industrial applications for multiple-criteria optimization of induction heaters design.