How an Induction Cooktop Works

A cooktop is a modern version of the kitchen stove, and is available in electric, gas, and induction versions. Electric and gas cooktops have their pros and cons, but induction cooktops seem to combine all the positive aspects of different cooktops, with one predictable drawback—the price. Below is an overview of the working mechanism of induction cooktops.

Electromagnets and Induction

In an induction cooktop, the heating element is an electromagnet. The cooking surface is smooth and easy to clean, and the electromagnets are housed underneath this surface. When you turn the knob to start an element, an electric current is passed through it. This results in a varying magnetic field that is produced in the electromagnet. When a magnetic piece of cookware is placed on the cooktop surface, the magnetic field induces an electric current in the cookware. A circular flow of electrons is generated in the magnetic cookware, causing the flow of electricity within the metal.

Transfer of Heat

When electricity is induced in the magnetic cookware, it presents a high amount of resistance to the flow of current. This is because cookware based on iron, which is magnetic, are not good conductors of electricity. As the cookware puts up a high degree of resistance to the electric current, heat is generated within the cookware. This heat is transferred to the contents in the cookware. Food is then cooked within the magnetic cookware. This method of heat transfer means that the cooktop surface remains cool as compared to the high heat levels seen in gas and electric cooktop elements. This is a great safety feature, because the occurrence of burns and their severity is greatly reduced. However, the cookware is quite hot, and some of the heat is transferred back to the cooktop surface, so you must be careful not to touch the cooking surface immediately after a cooking session.

Requirement for Magnetic Cookware

As induction cooktops work by inducing electric current in cookware, you can only use ferromagnetic utensils as cookware. If you were to place a glass, ceramic or earthen piece of cookware on the induction cooktop, there will be no transfer of heat involved. You cannot use utensils made of metals such as aluminum or copper, either. The only choices are iron steel utensils, which can be induced by the magnetic field from the electromagnets. In addition to the high cost of an induction cooktop, prospective buyers must also take into consideration the cost of replacing non-magnetic cookware with ferromagnetic utensils.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Induction Cooking

Induction cooking is a highly efficient and energy friendly cooking option. There is minimum loss of heat, when compared to the working of electric or gas cooktops. These cooktops conserve the highest amount of energy, and also boast of a wide range of advanced features. Some of these features include timers, alarms and the ability to adjust burner size to the cookware. The cooktop automatically shuts off if cookware is empty or if an element is accidentally turned on. The drawbacks are price, requirement for ferromagnetic cookware and the danger of heating up metals such as jewelry worn by the cook.