ABSTRACT

The research work aims to design and fabricate an electric induction crucible furnace using locally sourced materials. It covers the design, fabrication and performance evaluation of electrically powered crucible furnace suitable for use both in the rural and urban areas for casting of metals using indigenously sourced materials and technology.

The method for the design included components of furnace such as furnace casing, crucible, furnace cover, electric unit housing, furnace cover stand, base stand and induction coil. Mild steel sheet was used for the fabrication of the furnace, while the other components needed for the design were selected based on functionality, durability, cost and local availability.

Experimental tests were performed to evaluate the performance of the furnace. The average heating rate of 53.11°C/min was recorded by the furnace and attained a temperature as high as 1720 °C. The furnace also had a melting rate of 1500g/min for Aluminum. The thermal efficiency of the furnace was determined to be 29.2%.

The furnace is environmental friendly without health hazards to the workers and can be moved from one place to another unlike the local one.