Induction cooktops work on the principle of electromagnetic induction. An induction cooktop has a smooth glass surface with coils of copper wire placed right underneath. When turned on, an alternating current is passed through these coils which generates a changing electromagnetic field. Any ferromagnetic cookware (made of iron, steel or sometimes aluminum) placed on the glass top is heated up almost instantly due to rapid vibration of atoms in the cookware from the alternating electromagnetic field. The glass surface remains cool to touch even when turned on because the heat is generated directly within the cookware and not in the cooktop itself.
Unlike gas or electric stoves which heat up the whole cooking surface, induction cooktops utilize electromagnetic induction to directly heat up the ferromagnetic cookware keeping the cooktop surface cool. The rapidly vibrating molecules in the cookware create heat by friction within seconds. Hence induction cooktops are extremely energy efficient as it does not waste energy heating up the whole surface. The heat can be controlled precisely by adjusting the electromagnetic field strength for gentle to rapid boiling.
Benefits of using Induction Cooktops
– Speed and precision: Household Induction Cooktops heat up and cool down very rapidly allowing precise and quick adjustments in temperature as per cooking needs. Food can be simmered or boiled within minutes.
– Energy efficiency: Around 90% of the electric current passing through the induction coils is utilized in directly heating the cookware compared to only 40-60% with other electric cooktops or coils. This makes induction one of the most energy efficient cooking options.
– Safety: Glass cooktops remain cool to touch even when turned on due to absence of exposed heating elements. There are no flames or fire hence greatly reducing risk of burns or house fires. Automatic pan detection switches off instantaneously on removing cookware.
– Easy cleaning: Smooth glass surface wipes clean easily without any nooks or edges to trap spilled food. Non-porous surface inhibits bacterial growth. Spills can simply be wiped away unlike stovetops which need scrubbing.
– Compatibility: Induction cooktops are compatible with majority of cookware including stainless steel, cast iron and special ferromagnetic aluminium-core pots and pans. Magnetic materials are quickly heated while non-magnetic materials like copper remain cold on the cooktop.
– Durability: Solid glass induction cooktops are highly durable and scratch resistant compared to regular coil or glass cooktops. They can withstand daily wear and tear of cooking for several years.
– Control and display: Digital controls allow setting precise temperatures and timers. Multi-zone induction cooktops are also available with independent cooking zones for flexibility. Large LED displays provide visibility from a distance.
Drawbacks of Induction Cooktops
– Higher initial cost: High-end induction cooktops tend to be more expensive than regular electric or gas stovetops. However energy and maintenance cost savings offset the higher initial cost over time.
– Non compatibility with few cookware: Only cookware made from magnetic materials like cast iron, stainless steel or special aluminium alloys can be used. Copper or aluminium pots are not suitable. Most newer kitchenware these days is induction compatible.
– Noise: Some induction cooktops may emit an audible humming noise from the electromagnetic coils while cooking which some may find annoying. Newer models are designed to be virtually noiseless.
– Service and repair: Availability of trained service technicians may be limited in some areas for repair or maintenance of induction units containing electronic components. Warranties help address this issue.
Suitable Applications of Induction Cooktops
Besides residential kitchens, induction cooktops find usage in following areas due to their high efficiency, precision and safety:
– Commercial kitchens: Fast service restaurants and dhabas prefer induction for rapid cooking ability and ease of cleaning stainless steel surfaces important for hygiene. Energy savings also cut costs for commercial establishments.
– Laboratory equipment: Precision temperature control and responsiveness of induction makes it suitable for heating lab apparatus and reagents. Rapid heating-cooling is advantage for chemical reactions.
-RV cooktops: Modern RVs and campervans integrate compact induction cooktops for convenience and safety while touring. No propane or electricity required, just roll up to any power outlet for cooking flexibility away from home.
-Outdoor cooking: Induction’s spill-resistant glass top and lack of open flame allows safe outdoor use under sun shelters or portable units away from flammable surfaces. Great for barbecues and parties.
-Emergency response: Mobile trailers and contingency vehicles used in disaster relief efforts rely on induction for easy on-site cooking without risk of fire or propane lines punctures. Safe operation in crowds.
-Aircraft galley: New generation aircraft galleys ditch oven/burner elements for induction which is lightweight, safe and requires no ventilation system. Minimal maintenance also cuts operational costs.
-Camping: Compact portable single-burner induction units with built-in batteries enable backpackers to enjoy convenient cooking in wilderness without fuel canisters or open flame. Lightweight and durable.
Household induction cooktops represent the future of safe, efficient and versatile cooking thanks to continued technological innovation. While initial costs remain higher, energy savings, precision control and risk-free operation are compelling home kitchen benefits. Wider compatibility with cookware and lower servicing needs further boost adoption. Induction seems poised to eventually replace gas and standard electric stoves worldwide.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author – Vaagisha Singh
Vaagisha brings over three years of expertise as a content editor in the market research domain. Originally a creative writer, she discovered her passion for editing, combining her flair for writing with a meticulous eye for detail. Her ability to craft and refine compelling content makes her an invaluable asset in delivering polished and engaging write-ups. LinkedIn