Using an induction burner with a wooden box and an inset steel plate as a food dehydrator can be a risky endeavor and is not recommended. Here are a few reasons why:
Temperature control: While induction burners can be precise in their temperature control, they might not be suitable for maintaining low temperatures like 120°F (48°C) consistently. Food dehydration typically requires low and steady temperatures over an extended period, and induction burners might not be designed for such specific, low-temperature settings.
Fire hazard: Wooden boxes are not safe to use with heating elements like induction burners. Wood is flammable and can easily catch fire when exposed to direct heat. Using a wooden box for dehydration can lead to a serious fire hazard.
Uneven heating: Even with an inset steel plate, the heat distribution might not be uniform within the wooden box. Some areas might get too hot, while others remain under-heated, resulting in uneven and inconsistent dehydration of the food.
Lack of airflow: Proper food dehydrators are designed with adequate ventilation to ensure proper airflow during the dehydration process. A wooden box might not provide the necessary ventilation, leading to poor dehydration results and potentially unsafe conditions.
If you want to dehydrate food safely and effectively, it's best to invest in a purpose-built food dehydrator. These appliances are designed with the necessary features to maintain precise and consistent low temperatures, provide proper airflow, and ensure safe food dehydration.
If you're interested in DIY projects, there are various tutorials available online that guide you in building a food dehydrator using safe materials and suitable heating elements. However, always prioritize safety when working with heating elements and food-related appliances.