Numerical modeling of microwave heating

Abstract

The present study compares the temperature distribution within cylindrical samples heated in microwave furnace with those achieved in radiatively-heated (conventional) furnace. Using a two-dimensional finite difference approach the thermal profiles were simulated for cylinders of varying radii (0.65, 6.5, and 65 cm) and physical properties. The influence of susceptor-assisted microwave heating was also modeled for the same. The simulation results reveal differences in the heating behavior of samples in microwaves. The efficacy of microwave heating depends on the sample size and its thermal conductivity.