Commercial induction cooktops work on the principle of electromagnetic induction to heat up cookware directly, without the need for an open flame or traditional heating element. Here's how they work:
Induction Coil: The cooktop contains a coil made of copper or other conductive materials. When an electric current passes through this coil, it generates a rapidly alternating magnetic field.
Magnetic Field: The alternating magnetic field extends above the surface of the cooktop.
Induction-Ready Cookware: To work with an induction cooktop, the cookware must have a magnetic bottom. Materials like iron, cast iron, steel, and some stainless steels are induction-ready and will work with the magnetic field.
Eddy Currents: When the induction-ready cookware is placed on the cooktop, the magnetic field induces electric currents, known as eddy currents, within the base of the cookware.
Resistance and Heat: The eddy currents encounter resistance within the magnetic material of the cookware, and this resistance generates heat. As a result, the base of the cookware becomes hot, and this heat is transferred to the food inside.
Precise Control: Induction cooktops offer precise temperature control, similar to gas stoves. They can heat up quickly and provide instant temperature adjustments, making them popular in commercial kitchens where precision and speed are crucial.
Key advantages of commercial induction cooktops include:
Energy Efficiency: Induction cooking is highly efficient because it directly heats the cookware without wasting energy on heating the surrounding air.
Faster Cooking: Induction cooktops heat up quickly, reducing cooking time and increasing kitchen efficiency.
Safety: Since the cooktop itself doesn't become hot, there is a reduced risk of burns or accidental fires. This feature is particularly important in busy commercial kitchens.
Easy Cleaning: The smooth, flat surface of induction cooktops makes them easy to clean, as spills and splatters don't get baked onto the cooktop.
Temperature Precision: Induction cooktops allow for precise temperature control, making them ideal for delicate cooking tasks that require specific temperatures.
Cool Kitchen Environment: Since induction cooking doesn't radiate heat into the kitchen, the surrounding environment stays relatively cool, leading to a more comfortable working space.
However, it's worth noting that not all cookware works with induction cooktops. Non-magnetic cookware, such as aluminum, copper, and glass, will not work unless they have an induction-compatible base or a separate induction disc. Always check the cookware's compatibility before using it on an induction cooktop.