When using the induction hob, the first thing is to select the corresponding cookware. The material of the cookware is very important. Some cookware cannot be used on the induction hob, which will fail to heat up or even cause damage to the induction hob. This article will explain how the induction cooker works and what kind of cookware can be used on the induction hob.
How does an induction hob works?
The first thing to understand about induction hobs is that they rely on magnetic fields to generate heat rather than a traditional heating element or flame. The hob creates a magnetic field that induces an electric current in the base of the pan, and an induction hob contains a coil of copper wire underneath the ceramic plate. Induction coils from copper wire create a magnetic field as electricity passes through them. To generate a closed magnetic field through high-frequency current, and then to flow through the cookware, such as cast iron pan, can generate a small electric current. Generally speaking, it is an alternating current, which can make the pan automatically heats up and reheats the food in it.
Does the induction hob have to use a special pan?
An induction hob is a cooking utensil that uses electromagnetic induction to heat pans. During the heating process, an alternating magnetic field will be formed. Electric currents will be generated through the coil so that the iron molecules at the bottom of the pan will move and generate Joule heat. During the whole process, electrical energy is continuously converted into heat energy, so during the cooking process, there are certain requirements for the shape and material of the pan body.
If a pan with a magnetized base is placed on the hob, the magnetic field causes it to heat up directly, and the induction hob will remain cool, with only some residual heat from the pans. Non-magnetic pans put on the induction hob will not heat up. So you need to ensure that your pans are suitable for an induction hob. Therefore, a pot or pan on an induction hob must be made of a magnetic material that can interact with the hob's magnetic field.
What kind of cookware can be used on the induction hob?
For cookware to perform on induction cooktops, it must contain ferromagnetic materials. The most common materials used in induction-compatible pots and pans are stainless steel, cast iron, and certain types of aluminium. Cast iron and steel products are the best materials for pan materials. Because the cookware of this type of material has good magnetic conductivity, the heating load matches the induced electric current, the energy conversion rate is high, and it works well on the induction cooker.
The induction hob can use iron pans, cast iron pans or stainless iron pans as long as they are flat and can properly receive the magnetic charge. But we should pay attention that if you choose a cast iron pan, it should be a little thicker. Otherwise, the higher the temperature, the more deformation problems, and the pan's diameter should also be within a reasonable range.
The ideal special pan for an induction hob is cast iron, enamelled cast iron, and many types of stainless-steel cookware that are all induction compatible. You can tell if your pan is suitable for induction cooking if it has a coil symbol on the base or if a magnet clings firmly to the pan's underside. If you test a pan and the magnet only sticks loosely to the base, you may find the pan does not heat as effectively.
In addition to the material of the cookware, the base of the pan is also important when it comes to compatibility with induction hobs. The base of the pan must be flat and smooth to ensure good contact with the hob's surface. Pans with warped or uneven bases may not make good contact with the hob, which can result in uneven heating and poor cooking results. For example, a flat-bottomed cast iron wok should work very well. And pans made of non-magnetic conductive materials, such as ceramics, glass, and aluminium pans, cannot be used on the induction hob unless they have a layer on the bottom with magnetic properties.
If you do not use a special pan for an induction hob, it may not work on an induction hob. It is recommended that when purchasing an induction hob, you should ask about relevant matters and choose suitable pans.
Sum it up
The most suitable types of pots and pans for induction hobs are those made of magnetic materials such as stainless steel and cast iron. Some types of aluminium cookware can also be used on induction hobs if they have a magnetic base. When shopping for induction-compatible cookware, be sure to check the material and the base of the pan to ensure it is suitable for use on your particular hob. You can enjoy the many benefits of induction cooking with the right cookware.