A bifilar coil, also known as a pancake coil, is used in an induction stove for several reasons:
Enhanced Magnetic Field: A bifilar coil design allows for the concentration of magnetic fields. The close proximity of the two parallel windings creates a stronger magnetic field compared to a single-wire coil. This increased magnetic field helps in inducing more heat in the ferromagnetic cookware placed on the stove.
Efficient Heat Transfer: The strong magnetic field generated by the bifilar coil efficiently transfers energy to the cookware. As the magnetic field alternates rapidly, it induces electrical currents (eddy currents) in the metal of the cookware. These eddy currents generate heat due to the electrical resistance of the material, resulting in efficient and rapid heating of the cookware.
Uniform Heating: The bifilar coil design ensures a more uniform distribution of the magnetic field across the entire surface of the cookware. This helps in achieving even heating throughout the bottom of the pot or pan, ensuring consistent cooking results.
Compact Design: Bifilar coils are generally flat and compact, making them suitable for the limited space available in an induction stove. The pancake coil can be positioned directly beneath the glass-ceramic cooktop, allowing for a thinner profile and efficient heat transfer.
Safety and Energy Efficiency: Induction stoves are designed to heat only the cookware placed on the surface, not the cooktop itself. The magnetic field generated by the bifilar coil interacts with the ferromagnetic material in the cookware, while the cooktop remains relatively cool. This makes induction stoves safer to touch and more energy-efficient compared to traditional gas or electric stoves.
Overall, the use of a bifilar coil in an induction stove helps optimize the transfer of energy, ensuring efficient and uniform heating of the cookware while maintaining safety and energy efficiency.