Definition
A method of heating an electrically conductive material by placing it inside a coil carrying high-frequency alternating current. The changing magnetic field produced by the coil induces circulating electrical currents (eddy currents) inside the material, and the resistance of the material to these currents generates heat. The coil itself does not touch the workpiece and stays relatively cool.
Plain English
A way of heating a metal part without touching it. A coil with rapidly alternating electricity is wrapped around the part, and the magnetic field from the coil makes electrical currents flow inside the metal. Those currents heat the metal from the inside out.
Context Anchor
Seen mainly in aircraft maintenance, electrical equipment discussions, and manufacturing or repair processes where metal parts are heated in a controlled way.
Derivation
From Latin inducere, 'to lead in.' The heat is 'led into' the metal by a magnetic field rather than applied directly by a flame or hot surface.
Why Pilots Care
Allows precise, controlled heating of engine parts to achieve proper fits without risking damage from open flames or uneven heat.
Grounding Statement
A metal part can become hot when placed in the right changing magnetic field, even though no flame is touching it.
Intuition Check
Induction heating is not the same as heating the engine induction system. Here, “induction” means heat created by electrically induced current inside a material.
Example Sentence 1
The shop used induction heating to expand the bearing race so it could be slipped onto the shaft.
Example Sentence 2
Induction heating is preferred over a torch because it heats the part evenly and reduces the risk of warping.