Induction heating device, operating method, production line, use of such an induction heating device, use of such an operating method, and use of such a production line

Abstract

The invention relates to an induction heating device for heating a metal product, having at least one resonant circuit with a coil for generating a magnetic field, which can interact with the metal product in a working region of the coil, and a machine direction, along which the metal product can be transported through the working region, wherein the coil is movably mounted relative to the metal product transversely to the machine direction. The induction heating device is characterized in that the coil can be adjusted in a flow spacing, by means of which a homogenous degree of electric efficiency can be produced along the metal product, before the metal product arrives at the coil and / or while the metal product is running into the coil or the working region of the coil relative to the surface side of the metal product, said side lying opposite the coil.

Description

[0001] Applicant: SMS group GmbH

[0002] 5

[0003] Induction heating device, operating method, production line, use of such an induction heating device, use of such an operating method and use of such a production line

[0004] The invention relates to an induction heating device for inductively heating a metallic material with at least one oscillating circuit comprising a coil for generating a magnetic field which, in a working area of ​​the coil, is in contact with the metallic material.

[0005] 15 metallic material, and having a machine direction along which the metallic material can be transported through the working area, wherein the coil is mounted so as to be displaceable relative to the metallic material transversely to the machine direction. 0

[0006] The invention also relates to an operating method for inductively heating a metallic material by means of an induction heating device, in which the metallic material is guided past at least one coil of the induction heating device and is thereby heat-treated by means of a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil.

[0007] The invention further relates to a production line for producing and / or processing a metallic product, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a precursor product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material. The invention also relates to the use of such an induction heating device.

[0008] The invention also relates to a use of such an operating method.

[0009] The invention also relates to the use of such a production line.

[0010] Generic induction heating devices, especially in connection with production lines for the manufacture and / or processing of semi-finished products and / or preliminary products and / or intermediate products and / or products made of iron, steel and / or non-ferrous metal materials, are known from the prior art.

[0011] In this case, the known induction heating devices for heating passing metallic goods are equipped with coils which are fixed relative to the metallic goods and / or in particular vertically adjustable, wherein the metallic goods are guided past the respective coil in the machine direction of the induction heating device.

[0012] In induction heating devices with fixed coils, the distance between the fixed coils and the metallic goods is always designed so that even metallic goods with the largest possible dimensions, seen transversely to the conveying plane of the respective induction heating device, do not collide with the fixed coils. This means that the coils must always be spaced at the greatest possible safety distance from the metallic goods. However, this intended safety distance has the consequence that the achievable electrical efficiency of the respective induction heating device is considerably reduced. To overcome this disadvantage, other induction heating devices have vertically adjustable coils, i.e. coils that can be adjusted in a vertical direction.Such vertically adjustable coils are moved into a safety position before the metallic item reaches the respective coil, in which position it is ensured that the metallic item does not collide with the respective coil, regardless of which position and / or shape tolerances are inherent in the metallic item. It is often the case that the head area of ​​the metallic item in particular, for example as a result of previous manufacturing processes, etc., has critical shape deviations which can deviate considerably from the remaining geometry of the metallic item, for example due to previous primary and / or forming processes or similar.

[0013] In this respect, on induction heating devices with adjustable coils, an additional safety distance is prophylactically set between the coil and the surface of the metallic item (safety position) until at least the head area of ​​the metallic item has passed through the respective coil or its working area. Only after the head area of ​​the metallic item has passed the respective coil is the coil moved into its actual operating position. The disadvantage here is that the operating distance between the coil and the metallic item can fluctuate critically, for example as a result of further, albeit usually smaller, unfavorable position and / or shape tolerances behind the head area of ​​the metallic item, so that the magnetic field generated by the coil cannot constantly heat the metallic item homogeneously with the desired, in particular optimal, electrical efficiency.

[0014] In particular, the initial shifting of the coil into the safety position almost always leads to a different, usually weaker, heating of the head area than in the middle area of ​​the metallic material that adjoins the head area.

[0015] The same actually always applies to the base area of ​​the metallic part, which in turn adjoins the middle area of ​​the metallic part. Here, too, the adjustable coils are often moved back to the safety position due to expected larger shape and / or position tolerances.

[0016] Thus, the metallic product is usually partially heated inhomogeneously, and usually enters the production line with a somewhat cooler head or foot area. This, in turn, can result in the material in the head or foot area being of inferior quality after the processing of the metallic product, which usually follows heating, because a previously existing inhomogeneity not only persists but is intensified, so that the material can no longer be used for its intended purpose.

[0017] Furthermore, generic production lines for manufacturing and / or processing semi-finished products and / or preliminary products and / or intermediate products and / or products made of ferrous, steel and / or non-ferrous metal materials are also known from the prior art. As a rule, these consist of several devices in which the preliminary product and / or the intermediate product and / or the product is each subjected to one or more process steps. The devices can be, for example, heating or cooling devices, transport devices, shaping devices, cleaning devices, chemical treatment devices, surface coating devices, separating or joining devices and combinations thereof.The process steps can be, for example, increasing or decreasing the temperature, transport, forming, cleaning, chemical treatment, coating the surface, separating or joining, as well as combinations thereof.

[0018] The invention is based on the object of providing an improvement or alternative to the prior art. In particular, the invention is based on the object of advantageously increasing the output of good parts or good material in induction heating devices of this type.

[0019] The object of the invention is achieved by an induction heating device for heating a metallic material with at least one oscillating circuit comprising a coil for generating a magnetic field which can interact with the metallic material in a working area of ​​the coil and with a machine direction along which the metallic material can be transported through the working area, wherein the coil is arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the metallic material transversely to the machine direction, and wherein the coil can be adjusted at a flow distance relative to a surface side of the metallic material which is opposite the coil before and / or during the metallic material running into the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil, by means of which flow distance a homogeneous electrical efficiency can be generated along the metallic material.

[0020] Because a homogeneous electrical efficiency can be generated along the metallic material, in particular a significantly more homogeneous electrical efficiency than with conventional induction heating devices of this type, the head region and preferably also the foot region can be treated with the same efficiency as the rest of the metallic material, so that this alone can noticeably increase the output of good parts or good material. Advantageously, at the latest when the head region of the metallic material enters the working area, the coil is brought into it at an operating distance from this head region, in particular at an optimal operating distance, namely the flow distance, by means of which the head region can also be heat-treated identically or at least almost identically to the rest of the metallic material.

[0021] This makes it possible, in a particularly simple construction, to significantly improve the usable output of good parts or good material on the induction heating device and thus ultimately also on a correspondingly equipped production line, since the metallic material, including the head area and preferably down to the foot area, can now be heated homogeneously throughout.

[0022] In order to achieve a similarly improved output, an additional processing device would otherwise have to be installed upstream of the induction heating device, for example, in order to eliminate disturbing shape defects on the metallic material before the metallic material finally reaches the induction heating device.

[0023] In any case, the induction heating device according to the invention makes it possible to subject the metallic material to a much more homogeneous heat treatment than has previously been the case with generic induction heating devices. This is due, among other things, to the fact that in conventional induction heating devices with movable coils, the coil is initially moved into a safety position before and during the entry of the metallic material in order to rule out the risk of a collision with the head area of ​​the metallic material. A collision between the metallic material and the coil would result in damage to the induction heating device, which usually requires repair and a related production downtime.In such a safety position, the coil is often positioned at a safety distance of more than 100 mm or 200 mm, or usually even more, from the product to ensure collision avoidance. However, if the coil is placed in such a safety position, the head area of ​​the metallic product is usually not adequately heat-treated (at most by heat conduction from the central area of ​​the product behind it) and can become production waste.

[0024] In such a safety position, inductive heating is not activated. In other words, the induction heating device or at least one of its oscillating coils, more precisely one or more associated coils, are not yet inductively activated when the head region of the metallic material passes through or into the induction heating device. Therefore, such a head region, as well as an end region of the metallic material, is not actively and specifically heat-treated.

[0025] This disadvantage is eliminated in the present case, since the induction heating device is inductively activated (activation position) already before or when the metallic material enters the induction heating device, in particular before or when it enters an effective area of ​​the at least one coil.

[0026] The induction heating device according to the invention avoids these disadvantages and significantly increases the output of good parts or good material.

[0027] In any case, it is advantageous if the coil can be adjusted in terms of flow distance relative to a surface of the metallic material, taking into account deformation of the head region of the metallic material, before and / or during the metallic material's entry onto the coil or into the coil's working area. As already described, this avoids the risk of collision between the coil and the material while simultaneously ensuring homogeneous heating (head region - middle region - possibly foot region) of the metallic material.

[0028] First of all, it should be pointed out that in the context of this patent application, indefinite articles and indefinite numerical expressions such as "one...", "two..." etc. are generally to be understood as at least expressions, i.e. as "at least one...", "at least two..." etc., unless it is clear from the context or the concrete text of a particular passage that only "exactly one...", "exactly two..." etc. are meant.

[0029] At this point it should be mentioned that in the context of this patent application the expression "in particular" is always to be understood as introducing an optional, preferred feature. The expression is not to be understood as "and indeed" or "namely".

[0030] The term "head region" in the present case designates a front region of the metallic material as seen in the conveying direction. The size or length of such a head region can vary. For example, the length of the head region can depend on the material thickness of the metallic material. For example, the head region has a length of 100 mm or 150 mm or more as measured from the front end of the metallic material. For example, the size or length of the head region can also depend on the type of deformation, for example caused by a cutting process on a material strand. In particular, the head region can also have a ski deformation or the like. The term "foot region" in the present case designates a rear region of the metallic material as seen in the conveying direction.The design can occur as before in the head area and can extend a length of 100 mm or 150 mm or more, measured from a rear end face of the metallic item.

[0031] Due to this analogy, for the sake of simplicity, we will only refer to the head area from now on, even though the foot area is also included.

[0032] The term "homogeneous electrical efficiency" describes in the sense of the invention one or more electrical efficiencies extending over the length of the metallic item, in particular over its entire length, which behave / behave as uniformly as possible over the entire length of the metallic item or are adjustable.

[0033] In this case, the homogeneous or, compared to the prior art, more homogeneous electrical efficiency can be composed of a plurality of partial electrical efficiencies of the metallic material conveyed through the working area of ​​the coil, wherein a partial efficiency can be defined in relation to an extension area of ​​the metallic material in the longitudinal direction of the metallic material, in particular partial efficiencies related to head and / or foot areas of the metallic material and an area (middle area) of the metallic material arranged therebetween.

[0034] In general, the existing electrical efficiency is defined within the meaning of the invention by the ratio between the electrical energy applied to the coil and the heat input thereby generated at the metallic material. The electrical efficiency is preferably defined within the meaning of the invention as a function of the existing flow distance, i.e. the operating distance, which is set between the coil and the metallic material. As a rule, this is the minimum possible operating distance (optimum flow distance to enable optimal efficiency) between the coil and the surface of the metallic material corresponding to the coil, i.e. closest to it. As a boundary condition for the flow distance, it is taken into account that there should be no undesired collision between the coil and the metallic material or the surface of the metallic material facing it.

[0035] The term "flow distance" in the sense of the invention essentially describes an operating or working distance between the coil and the metallic material, at which the metallic material is homogeneously heat-treated by means of the magnetic field generated by the coil.

[0036] In particular, the term "flow distance" refers to an operating or working distance which is the same in the head region and in an adjoining central region of the metallic material within the meaning of the invention in order to be able to heat treat both the head region and the adjoining central region homogeneously.

[0037] A value for the flow distance can be understood as the smallest value of the distance between the coil and the metallic material, in particular over the extent of the working range of the coil.

[0038] In order to achieve the best possible electrical efficiency between the coil and the metallic material, the operating distance is selected to be as small as possible; this means that a minimum distance is preferably set between the coil and the metallic material, without any critical contact being possible between the coil and the metallic material.

[0039] The flow distance is activated or set in the head area of ​​the metallic material and is preferably kept constant up to the foot area of ​​the metallic material, preferably kept constant throughout.

[0040] In other words: the coil in question follows the surface profile of the metallic material opposite it, with a constant operating distance or with a homogeneous flow distance.

[0041] In this case, the coil follows the heights and depths of the surface profile of the metallic material, preferably from the end face of the metallic material running into the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil, so that the flow distance, which is essentially maintained along the longitudinal extent of the metallic material, is therefore already set in the head area.

[0042] In this respect, the flow distance is a uniform or homogeneous operating distance within the meaning of the invention, wherein the coil is in a "flow" with respect to the surface profile of the metallic material with regard to a vertical coil displacement in order to keep this homogeneous flow distance constant even when geometric changes of the metallic material occur along the metallic material, in particular geometric changes of the metallic material within the shape and / or position tolerances of the metallic material.

[0043] This ensures that the head area and the remaining areas of the metal part are heated homogeneously, or more homogeneously than usual. If the coil and the metal part are not yet aligned, the flow distance is to be understood as a designated flow distance, which is determined in advance, has been determined, and / or can be determined.

[0044] With regard to the flow distance found to be advantageous here within the meaning of the invention, an induction heating device for heating a metallic item with at least one oscillating circuit comprising a coil for generating a magnetic field which can interact with the metallic item in a working area of ​​the coil, and with a machine direction along which the metallic item can be transported through the working area, is also advantageous, regardless of the other features of the invention, wherein the coil is arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the metallic item transversely to the machine direction, and wherein the induction heating device is characterized in that the coil is already attached to the coil or the machine direction before and / or during the running-in of the metallic item.into the working area of ​​the coil relative to a surface side of the metallic material which is opposite the coil, is adjustable at a flow distance which is set both in the head area of ​​the metallic material and in a central area of ​​the metallic material downstream of the head area.

[0045] This ideally allows a homogeneous flow distance between the coil and the metallic material to be set and maintained over the entire length of the metallic material, so that the metallic material can be heat-treated along its entire longitudinal extent with a particularly homogeneous heat input.

[0046] In this respect, the metallic material is preferably heat-treated throughout and not only partially, since in the case of a partial heating requirement, a homogeneous electrical efficiency along the entire metallic material is not required at all and, in this respect, a uniform flow distance with regard to the entire metallic material does not appear to be necessary either.

[0047] The present invention achieves a significant improvement in output, particularly with regard to metallic goods that are to be processed in batches.

[0048] The term "metallic goods" in the sense of the invention describes any goods which can be heated by induction, such as strips, slabs, billets or the like, in particular electrically conductive semi-finished products, preliminary products, intermediate products or products made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material.

[0049] At this point it should be explained that the expression "during" also includes a state after the metallic material or its head area has run onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil.

[0050] However, the present induction heating device can also be used advantageously in connection with continuously conveyed metallic goods, for example with a metallic "endless product", if the induction heating device is characterized in that the coil can be adjusted at a flow distance relative to the surface of the metallic product opposite it while the metallic product is being guided past, by means of which a homogeneous electrical efficiency can be generated along the metallic product.

[0051] In any case, by means of the present induction heating device, a distance between the coil and the metallic material can be adjusted not only partially, but continuously in the desired manner over the entire length of the metallic material, so that in particular shape and position tolerances can also be taken into account over the entire length of the metallic material and can be advantageously compensated by means of a suitable displacement of the coil relative to the metallic material.

[0052] Advantageously, the present induction heating device makes it possible to set a desired, in particular an optimal or minimum distance (flow distance) between the coil and the metallic material already in the head region of the metallic material, so that the metallic material can be heated as homogeneously as possible, in particular at its end regions, more precisely at its head region and optionally also at its foot region, in particular with respect to the central region of the metallic material.

[0053] Ideally, the coil can be optimally adjusted relative to the metallic material along its entire length, so that an optimal distance between the coil and the metallic material for optimal electrical efficiency in the material can be adjusted not only behind a possibly critically deformed head area, without this leading to critical contact between the coil and the metallic material.

[0054] This makes it possible for the metallic material to be subjected to a uniform heat input over its entire length, which can significantly reduce the amount of material waste.

[0055] In other words, this means that with regard to the material passing through the induction heating device, the oscillating circuit of the induction heating device, in particular the coil thereof, can always be kept at an optimal distance from the metallic material, depending on the geometry of the metallic material, and this over the entire length of the metallic material.

[0056] As a result, the coil of the present induction heating device can be regulated or controlled in such a way that it can always be set or maintained at a desired or optimal distance from the metallic item, over the entire length of the metallic item, in particular taking into account any deformation of the metallic item, especially in its head and / or foot areas.

[0057] The term "total length" or "total length" in the sense of the invention does not only comprise a middle region between a head region and a foot region of the metallic item, but expressly includes this head or foot region from the head-side end face to the foot-side end face of the metallic item.

[0058] Insofar as the term "minimal distance" is used here, this is to be understood as an operating distance (in particular head and foot distance or flow distance) between the respective coil and the metallic material to be treated, which can be kept constant in particular by means of volatile operating positions of the coil on the induction heating device or by means of operating positions following position and / or shape tolerances.

[0059] In this respect, the present induction heating device allows the coil to assume a variety of different operating positions relative to the metallic material in order to achieve the most homogeneous heat input possible over the largest possible length along the metallic material. This preferably also applies to the operating distances (foot distance) between the foot area and the central area of ​​the metallic material.

[0060] A particularly homogeneous electrical efficiency can be achieved along the metallic material if operating distances between the coil and the surface material side are designed to be identical along the metallic material.

[0061] This ensures that the coil can always treat the metallic material advantageously with a homogeneous electrical efficiency, both in the head area and in the adjacent middle area.

[0062] This also applies to operating distances between the base area and the middle area of ​​the metallic goods.

[0063] This allows the metallic material to be heated extremely homogeneously both in the head area and in the adjacent middle area.

[0064] This in turn leads to a significant reduction in output losses at the induction device in question, thus to a significant increase in output.

[0065] It should further be explained that according to the present invention, an "induction heating device" is understood to mean a device which is designed for the inductive heating of a metallic material using electrical energy.

[0066] Increasing the temperature of the precursor and / or the intermediate product and / or the product is often essential for many process steps and thus represents an essential process step in the treatment of the metallic material.

[0067] For this purpose, induction heating devices according to the present invention can be used, wherein the respective induction heating device can be used at various locations within a production line for the manufacture and / or processing of a metallic product or on a roller conveyor of the production line.

[0068] During induction heating using an induction heating device, the oscillating circuit is excited to oscillate, particularly in the medium frequency range.

[0069] Usually, a mains voltage, for example a single-phase or multi-phase alternating voltage, is first rectified and smoothed, and the direct voltage is fed to an inverter, which excites the oscillating circuit.

[0070] Advantageously, the present induction heating device can therefore achieve direct heating of the metallic material, since the heat is generated in the metallic material itself and does not have to be introduced from the outside via the surface of the metallic material by heat conduction, convection and / or radiation.

[0071] In this respect, the term "oscillating circuit" in the sense of the invention refers to a device for inductively heating a metallic material. The oscillating circuit comprises at least one coil and one capacitor device.

[0072] In accordance with the invention, at least a first oscillating circuit can be arranged above a metallic item to be heated or above a corresponding transport path or roller conveyor along which the metallic item is specifically transported.

[0073] The oscillating circuit is also characterized by a working area or an electrical effective area in which the magnetic field can interact with the metallic material.

[0074] In this respect, such a first coil or an upper coil of the present induction heating device can be arranged above the working area or the metallic material to be heated.

[0075] In addition, the present induction heating device can comprise at least a second oscillating circuit with at least one second coil, which are arranged below the working area or the metallic material to be heated and thus below the first oscillating circuit and also below a related transport path or a roller table of a production line for producing and / or processing a metallic material, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material.

[0076] A coil of the induction heating device may have less than one complete turn, one complete turn and / or more than one complete turn, in particular more than or equal to two turns, more than or equal to three turns or more than or equal to four turns.

[0077] The part of the coil acting on the metallic material preferably has a meandering, U-shaped or hairpin-shaped geometry. In any case, the respective coil is arranged on one side relative to the material to be heated and can also be adjusted or moved relative to the metallic material in order to be able to set the desired electrical efficiency precisely.

[0078] In the present case, an electrical connection between a metallic material and an alternating magnetic field can be brought about by longitudinal field induction and / or by transverse field induction. With longitudinal field induction, the magnetic field lines run essentially in the longitudinal direction of the metallic material. With transverse field induction, the magnetic field lines in the metallic material run essentially in a transverse direction of the metallic material, in particular in the thickness direction and / or in the width direction of the metallic material.

[0079] If the metallic material is a sheet, for example, the magnetic field lines in the case of transverse field induction can essentially enter the sheet in the thickness direction and exit the sheet again in the thickness direction.

[0080] Advantageously, the present induction heating device comprises a power supply device for supplying the oscillating circuit with electrical energy, or the induction heating device comprises at least suitable connection means for connection to such a power supply device.

[0081] The term "energy supply device" in the sense of the invention is understood to mean a device which is designed to provide electrical energy for the operation of at least one resonant circuit, in particular with electrical current of suitable current intensity, suitable voltage and / or suitable frequency. A suitable energy supply device can be designed to provide electrical energy for a plurality of resonant circuits, in particular for at least two resonant circuits, three, four, five, six or more resonant circuits.

[0082] It is understood that an electrical connection between the power supply device and one or more resonant circuits of the present induction heating device can be designed in various ways, for example, in a known manner using suitable busbars or the like. However, wired electrical supply lines are also possible with a suitably selected connection design.

[0083] Furthermore, a capacitor device provided in connection with the present induction heating device, in particular an oscillating circuit thereof, can also be configured differently.

[0084] For example, the capacitor device is equipped with a single capacitor or with a plurality of capacitors. In the latter variant, several capacitors can then preferably be connected in parallel.

[0085] The present induction heating device can comprise a single capacitor device which is electrically connected to a coil or alternatively to a plurality of coils.

[0086] In particular, in the case of multiple coils, multiple capacitor devices can also be provided on the induction heating device. Optionally, each coil is assigned exactly one capacitor device, whereby this capacitor device can in turn comprise a single capacitor or several capacitors, preferably connected in parallel. Alternatively, multiple coils can also be assigned to one capacitor.

[0087] Constructions in which exactly one coil is electrically assigned to a capacitor device and cumulatively several coils are electrically assigned to another capacitor device can also be advantageously realized in the present induction heating device.

[0088] Depending on the application requirements, different arrangement variations can be realized.

[0089] Furthermore, the present induction heating device can comprise an adjusting device for adjusting, in particular for vertically adjusting, the coil, or can be operatively connected to such an adjusting device, wherein the term "adjusting device" describes a device by means of which the coil can be displaced relative to the metallic material or relative to a working area or effective area of ​​the induction heating device as required.

[0090] The adjustment device can be equipped with one or more hydraulic cylinders or rack and pinion drive or toggle lever or the like for linear adjustment.

[0091] A coil "arranged so as to be displaceable transversely to the machine direction" is understood to mean that the coil is mounted so as to be displaceable in the vertical direction and / or horizontal direction transversely to the machine direction.

[0092] Particularly preferably, a coil for adjusting a flow distance is mounted in a vertical direction transverse to the machine direction. In this respect, the term "vertical" in the sense of the invention describes a direction transverse to the machine direction, which points in the main conveying direction of the metallic material.

[0093] Preferably, a coil is mounted so as to be displaceable in the horizontal direction transverse to the machine direction, whereby the coil can be removed from a designated production line, in particular for maintenance work.

[0094] In particular, the respective coil is mounted so as to be height-adjustable relative to the metallic material, in particular relative to its thickness, wherein for such a height adjustment the coil is mounted so as to be displaceable transversely to the metallic material or preferably orthogonally to the metallic material or a transport path or conveyor path or a roller table of a production line.

[0095] The term "height adjustment" describes a transverse displacement of the respective coil independent of the spatial orientation of the machine direction or a transport route along which the metallic material is transported.

[0096] In this respect, the height adjustment can be carried out vertically if the machine direction is essentially horizontal.

[0097] A more horizontal height adjustment can be provided in the sense of the invention if the machine direction is aligned more vertically.

[0098] In this respect, the term "vertical" in the sense of the invention describes a direction transverse to the machine direction, which points in the main conveying direction of the metallic material. In this case, however, it is generally a vertical position adjustment of the coil.

[0099] The improved output can be ensured in a particularly reliable manner if the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metallic material is the same in the longitudinal extension of the metallic material, or at most has a deviation with a value of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less than or equal to 5%.

[0100] Optionally, a deviation of the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metallic material in the longitudinal extent of the metallic material can be less than or equal to 7.5%, preferably less than or equal to 2.5%, or particularly preferably less than or equal to 1%, wherein the above details can include the head region as well as the middle region and the foot region.

[0101] Preferably, over the entire length of the metallic material, at least one partial electrical efficiency in the head region, at least one partial electrical efficiency behind the head region (middle region of the metallic material), and ideally also at least one partial electrical efficiency in the foot region are equal or identical. However, even with certain deviations in the partial electrical efficiencies, good results in terms of output can still be achieved.

[0102] In any case, this allows a very homogeneous electrical efficiency to be achieved over the entire length of the metallic material.

[0103] The output can already be significantly improved if the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metallic material along the metallic material is the same at least along a section of the metallic material, or at most has a deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less than or equal to 5%, wherein a preferred section including the head region is at least 10% or 20%, preferably more than 30%, of the total length of the metallic material.

[0104] Because the present induction heating device makes it possible to heat the head area and, in sections, the remaining area of ​​the metallic material uniformly and homogeneously, the output can already be advantageously improved compared to the state of the art.

[0105] In practice it has been found that it is often expedient if the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metallic material along the metallic material is the same at least along a section of the metallic material, or at most has a deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less than or equal to 5%, with a preferred section including the head region extending to at least 200 mm, 500 mm or 1000 mm behind the head region.

[0106] It has been shown that the output performance can be increased significantly within the meaning of the invention if the electrical efficiency, for example, is the same over the first 1000 mm of the metallic material - preferably starting from the front end of the metallic material - or has a deviation of at most less than or equal to 20%, preferably less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably less than or equal to 5%. However, simply matching the electrical efficiency effective in the head region with an electrical efficiency on the metallic material up to 200 mm behind the head region can significantly improve the output performance because the head region can be heated homogeneously in relation to the remaining regions of the metallic material.

[0107] An improved heat treatment of the head region with simultaneous high collision safety with respect to the coil can be achieved if the flow distance in the head region and / or in the foot region is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less.

[0108] At a flow distance of approximately 80 mm, the heat input into the head area is usually not ideal, but can be considered sufficient for some applications with good collision safety.

[0109] The smaller the flow distance is chosen, the more optimal the heat input can be.

[0110] Preferably, the flow distance in the head region and / or in the foot region is less than or equal to 30 mm, preferably less than or equal to 20 mm or particularly preferably less than or equal to 10 mm, so that the flow distance at the head region of the metallic material already corresponds to a flow distance which is usually set in a central region of the metallic material downstream of the head region.

[0111] Even with a flow distance of less than or equal to 30 mm, less than or equal to 20 mm or even less than or equal to 5 mm, especially in the head area and / or in the foot area, a sufficiently reliable safety distance can still be set between the coil and the metallic material, such as

[0112] Practical tests have shown that... It is therefore particularly advantageous if the flow distance along the metallic material can be adjusted in such a way that the flow distance in the head region of the metallic material corresponds to the flow distance that is set in a central region of the metallic material downstream of the head region, since this allows a homogeneous efficiency to be set preferably entirely across the metallic material.

[0113] If the flow distance with respect to the head region of the metallic material and an adjoining middle region of the metallic material has a distance deviation of 20% or less, preferably of 10% or less, or particularly preferably of 5% or less, the metallic material can be heated particularly effectively from head to toe.

[0114] In order to be able to activate a flow distance which is advantageous in the sense of the invention, it is particularly expedient if the induction heating device has a flow mode which can be activated, in particular before and / or while an end face of the metallic material reaches the coil, in particular the working area of ​​the coil.

[0115] This allows the induction heating device to be individually adjusted to the respective processing application.

[0116] There may be special applications in which the existing flow distance on a metallic item should not be adjusted, for example if a larger safety distance is desired at the head area or if heat treatment of the head area should not be carried out or should only be carried out to a limited extent.

[0117] Depending on the desired application, the flow mode can be easily activated or deactivated. The flow mode can be activated manually by the operating personnel or automatically, independently of the operating personnel.

[0118] The flow mode and its additional functions alone can advantageously expand and further develop the operating modes of conventional induction heating systems.

[0119] The flow mode can be implemented, for example, by means of a suitably configured control device, either with the aid of suitable software and / or with the aid of corresponding hardware components.

[0120] It is particularly advantageous if the induction heating device has an activation position from which a flow distance is set and / or the coil is activated, wherein the activation position is arranged in front of and / or on the coil, in particular in front of or on the working area of ​​the coil.

[0121] Such an activation position can ensure that the head area is reliably heat-treated to the same extent as the adjoining areas of the metallic material.

[0122] Advantageously, the above-described flow mode of the induction heating device can also be switched or activated / deactivated using the activation position.

[0123] It is also advantageous if the activation position is variably displaceable or adjustable. For example, it is advantageous if the activation position is arranged with a lead distance in front of the coil, in particular in front of the working area of ​​the coil, wherein the lead distance is greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 50 mm, or particularly preferably greater than or equal to 100 mm.

[0124] By means of such a pre-run distance, the induction heating device has sufficient time to move the coil into a suitable vertical coil position so that the correct flow distance from the head area is available on the coil before and / or during the run-in of the head area.

[0125] It is advantageous if the activation position can be arranged sufficiently far in front of the coil, particularly depending on process parameters on a production line.

[0126] In this respect, it is advantageous if the lead distance can be adjusted accordingly.

[0127] In order to ensure that activation in the sense of the invention does not occur too early, for example in order to be able to save energy for operating the coil, it is also advantageous if the activation position is arranged with a lead distance in front of the coil, in particular in front of the working area of ​​the coil, wherein the lead distance is less than or equal to 1000 mm, preferably less than or equal to 500 mm or particularly preferably less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0128] The present activation position can be selected particularly favorably if the pre-run distance is adjustable depending on the dimensions of the metallic material, in particular on the thickness of the metallic material, and / or on a shape deviation of the metallic material, in particular on the head region of the metallic material, and / or on a

[0129] Conveying speed of the metallic material, or the like. In order to be able to advantageously carry out a desired adjustment of the coil in the sense of the invention, it is furthermore expedient if the present induction heating device is characterized by a control device by means of which the vertical coil position of the coil, in particular the flow distance of the coil, relative to the metallic material, in particular relative to the head region thereof, can be adjusted, in particular as a function of determined data from a detection device for detecting information about the metallic material.

[0130] By means of the control device, for example, a suitable pre-run distance can be preselected automatically or a corresponding activation position can be set on the induction heating device.

[0131] For example, the control device can access process-internal data relating to a metallic good currently being processed and initiate control accordingly.

[0132] The control device can operate particularly precisely and in a timely manner if the above-mentioned settings can also be made as a function of data determined by a detection device for detecting information about the metallic item.

[0133] In any case, by means of the control device described here, a vertical coil position of the coil can be easily adjusted to achieve an optimal heat input into the metallic material, in particular into the head area thereof; this can be done before and / or while the head area runs onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil. A suitable detection device or sensor device is provided upstream, i.e. in the conveying direction of the metallic material, in front of the induction heating device, in particular in front of the

[0134] coil , arranged .

[0135] In general, the control device is therefore designed to set, in particular continuously, a flow distance, in particular a minimum distance, between the metallic material and the coil along the metallic material, taking into account the geometric profile of the metallic material.

[0136] The term "geometric profile" with regard to the metallic material describes, in the sense of the invention, the profile on the surface sides of the metallic material, whereby this term includes both deformations, such as a wave profile or the like, and minor defects directly on the surface of the metallic material.

[0137] The term "geometric profile" expressly also means the profile which can be averaged in particular in a central region of the metallic material, i.e. between a head region and a foot region, and is therefore not solely related to a head region or foot region of the metallic material, with the head region describing the incoming beginning and the foot region the outgoing end of the metallic material in relation to the coil.

[0138] The geometric profile can be caused by a shape deviation, in particular an irregular shape deviation, such as a protrusion, a deformation, such as a wavy profile or the like. Such a shape deviation can also be present in particular when the thickness of the metallic material is the same over its length or deviates only negligibly. A suitable detection device can be a component or a group of components of the present induction heating device, or alternatively can be operatively connected in a suitable manner as an external component or external group of components to the induction heating device, in particular to the control device.

[0139] The term "detecting device" or sensor device describes a device for detecting a relative position of the metallic material, in particular a surface side of the metallic material, relative to the induction heating device, in particular relative to a coil of the induction heating device, or a relative position in a working area which is defined by at least one coil of the induction heating device.

[0140] The detection device can in particular also determine a geometric profile of the metallic item exactly, in particular continuously over the entire length of the metallic item when the latter is guided past the detection device.

[0141] The detection device can be implemented in different ways, for example optically, in particular laser-optically, acoustically, inductively, mechanically scanning or the like.

[0142] For example, a surface profile or a geometric profile can be determined using an imaging process, preferably even before the coil is formed. Based on this determined surface profile or geometric profile, the coil can then be advantageously positioned relative to the metallic material in order to achieve, for example, optimum electrical efficiency with respect to the metallic material. Cumulatively or alternatively, continuous scanning of the surface side can also be performed, allowing a surface profile or geometric profile of the metallic material to be created particularly precisely, preferably in real time, on or shortly before the coil.

[0143] In some cases, it may be sufficient for the detection device to operate discontinuously in order to determine a sufficiently accurate geometric profile.

[0144] In order to be able to determine, for example, critical positional deviations in the head region of the metallic material at an early stage, for example with regard to a so-called ski deformation or the like, it can also be advantageous to detect a relative position of a short side, in particular a head side, so that by means of such detection at least a pre-adjustment of the coil relative to the material to be heated can be carried out in order to be able to adjust the coil more quickly subsequently relative to a long side of the metallic material.

[0145] In any case, the present induction heating device ensures that, ideally, at any point on a long side of the metallic item and at any time, an advantageous distance between the coil and the metallic item can be set in such a way that an optimal electrical efficiency can always be set on the metallic item.

[0146] The detection device can be arranged directly on the present induction heating device, for example on a frame part thereof, a housing part thereof, or the like, and can thus also be in contact with the coil, for example.

[0147] Alternatively, the sensor device can also be arranged upstream of the coil, i.e., upstream, as viewed in the conveying direction. Advantageously, the detection device has an effective range, whereby the term "effective range" with regard to the detection device is understood to mean an effective connection between the detection device and the metallic material.

[0148] It is advantageous if the detection device can also be used to determine setpoint values ​​of operating parameters relevant to the flow distance with regard to the metallic material, such as the thickness of the metallic material.

[0149] This target value can preferably be the thickness of a slab, the thickness of a billet, the thickness of a metal strip or the like.

[0150] For example, this can be achieved by a suitably configured or arranged detection device, which is advantageously located before or upstream of the coil, or cumulatively, or alternatively, for example, by means of process data from upstream machining processes. Corresponding data for the target value can, however, also originate from production planning data.

[0151] For example, an advantageous positioning of the coil relative to a surface side of the metallic material can be achieved by assuming the target value of relevant geometric parameters of the metallic material.

[0152] If a determined deviation of the relevant geometric parameter reaches or falls below a critical tolerance value, the metallic product can be guided past a coil located in an optimal position from the perspective of electrical efficiency. However, if the determined deviation of the relevant geometric parameter reaches or exceeds a critical tolerance value, the coil position can be adjusted as appropriate to enable collision-free passage through the product section with the geometric deviation.

[0153] In addition, the "corresponding side" of the metallic material is understood to mean that surface side of the metallic material which is directly opposite the respective sensor device or the respective coil.

[0154] This means that the upper side of the metallic material is directly opposite an upper coil of the induction heating device, and the lower side of the metallic material is directly opposite a lower coil of the induction heating device.

[0155] In this respect, it is advantageous if the detection device is designed to detect information on a shape and / or position of the metallic item, in particular on a shape and / or position of the head region and / or the foot region thereof, relative to a reference structure, whereby the control device can work even more precisely.

[0156] The term "reference structure" in the sense of the invention describes, for example, a reference plane or a working plane on the present induction heating device, along which the metallic material is moved past the coil.

[0157] Such a working plane preferably extends in and along the machine direction of the present induction heating device and preferably also through a working area of ​​the coil of the present induction heating device. The working plane of the present induction heating device preferably coincides with a conveying plane of a transport path or a corresponding roller conveyor of a suitably equipped production line.

[0158] In this respect, the reference structure can also be defined by such a funding level.

[0159] The conveyor level can, for example, ultimately be realized by a belt pull on a belt system, or something similar.

[0160] The reference structure can advantageously be used, for example, to convert absolute coordinates into relative coordinates.

[0161] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the detection device is designed to detect information on a speed of the metallic material relative to a reference structure.

[0162] Information on this can also help the control system to work more accurately.

[0163] In any case, it has proven advantageous if the reference structure comprises a device of the induction heating device, so that a reference reference can be made available immediately with the induction heating device.

[0164] As already indicated above, it is advantageous if the detection device is arranged upstream of the coil of the induction heating device, as a result of which corresponding information and data can be detected or determined both locally and promptly and can be made available up to date. The object of the invention is furthermore also achieved by an operating method for the inductive heating of a metallic item by means of an induction heating device, in which the metallic item is guided past at least one coil of the induction heating device and is heat-treated by means of a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil, the metallic item being subjected in its head region and its adjoining central region to an efficiency generated homogeneously between the coil and the metallic item.

[0165] Advantageously, the proposed operating method can significantly increase the output compared to conventional methods, since the metallic material can be treated with the same electrical efficiency starting from the front end up well into the middle area of ​​the metallic material or preferably up to and including the base area of ​​the metallic material.

[0166] The object of the invention is also achieved by an operating method for inductively heating a metallic material by means of an induction heating device, in which the metallic material is guided past at least one coil of the induction heating device and is heat-treated by means of a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil, wherein a flow distance is set between the coil and the metallic material, which flow distance is the same in the head region of the metallic material and in an adjoining central region of the metallic material.

[0167] Advantageously, at the latest when the head region of the metallic material enters the working area, the coil is brought into relation to this head region at an operating distance, in particular at an optimal operating distance, namely the flow distance, by means of which the head region can also be heat-treated identically or at least almost identically to the rest of the metallic material, so that the good material from the head region can also be reused later in the same way as, for example, the good material from the middle region of the metallic material.

[0168] Advantageously, in the operating methods proposed here, the induction heating device can be inductively activated (activation position) before or when the metallic material enters the induction heating device, in particular before it enters an effective area of ​​the at least one coil.

[0169] It is particularly advantageous if an efficiency generated homogeneously between the coil and the metallic material and / or a flow distance set between the coil and the metallic material in the head region and in the adjoining central region has a maximum deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less than or equal to 5%, since this allows a consistently usable metallic material to be generated.

[0170] Non-critical fluctuations in electrical efficiency and flow distance can be neglected as long as the quality of the heat treatment lies within acceptable tolerance ranges.

[0171] With regard to one method variant, it is advantageous if an efficiency generated homogeneously between the coil and the metallic material and / or a flow distance set between the coil and the metallic material is always the same along the entire metallic material. The expression “always the same” is to be understood here to mean that the flow distance is the same in a region of the metallic material, ideally at every point of the total length L of the metallic material based on the longitudinal extent of the metallic material, or for example at least at one point per 1 / 10 L, preferably at least at one point per 1 / 100 L, or more preferably at least at one point per 1 / 1000 L, where L represents any total length of the metallic material which corresponds approximately to a real or virtual length segment of a material to be produced.

[0172] In terms of process technology, it is possible to work much more energy-efficiently if a flow distance set between the coil and the metallic material in the head region and / or in the foot region is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less.

[0173] This means that these areas can be heat treated equally or at least as well as the middle area of ​​the metallic material.

[0174] Not only from this aspect, it is particularly advantageous if the coil is displaced into a vertical coil position on the induction heating device, in which the flow distance between the coil and the metallic material is 30 mm or less, or preferably 20 mm or less, or particularly preferably 15 mm or less, before and / or while the metallic material, in particular the head region thereof, runs onto the coil, in particular into the working region of the coil.

[0175] Preferably, a flow distance as reduced as possible is used, as long as this avoids critical contact between the coil and the metallic material. Furthermore, it is advantageous if a flow distance between the coil and the metallic material, in particular the head region thereof, is determined before and / or while the head region runs onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil.

[0176] This makes it possible for the flow distance to already be set when the metallic material runs onto the coil or into its working area.

[0177] In this context, one can also speak of a designated flow distance.

[0178] In order to be able to start the heat treatment without delay at the beginning of the metallic material, it is advantageous if a flow distance between the coil and the metallic material is determined as a function of a shape of the head region and / or of a position of the head region relative to a reference structure, such as a reference plane, before and / or while the head region runs onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil.

[0179] For this reason too, it is advantageous if the coil is moved to a vertical coil position in order to achieve optimal electrical efficiency and / or optimal flow distance before and / or while the head area moves onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil.

[0180] A similar situation applies to an advantageous method variant in which a first vertical coil position (starting position) of the coil on the induction heating device is adjusted as a function of the determined flow distance, since this allows the coil to be optimally adjusted relative to the head region of the metallic material right from the start. The induction heating device can advantageously be adjusted for an upcoming heat treatment if the first vertical coil position of the coil is adjusted from an activation position of the induction heating device in front of the coil.

[0181] If the activation position is set variably, in particular depending on dimensions, in particular the thickness, of the metallic material, the shape of the metallic material and / or the head region of the metallic material and / or a conveying speed of the metallic material relative to the coil, the coil can be reliably moved into the correct vertical coil position before the head region reaches the coil.

[0182] The situation is similar if the coil is moved into a vertical coil position or into the flow distance for optimum efficiency before and / or while the head area moves onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil.

[0183] Such optimal efficiency with regard to the coil and the metallic material can be achieved, among other things, by setting the flow distance as small as possible while at the same time avoiding collisions between the coil and the metallic material.

[0184] A heat treatment of the metallic material can be realized even more efficiently on the present induction heating device if the magnetic field of the coil is activated before and / or during the running of the metallic material, in particular the head region thereof, onto the coil or into the working area of ​​the coil.

[0185] At this point, it should also be claimed that the methods described here can also be supplemented by further technical features explained here, in particular by features of the device, in order to advantageously further develop the methods or to be able to represent or formulate method specifications even more precisely.

[0186] In particular, the present induction heating device can be advantageously operated using one of the methods described here.

[0187] The object of the invention is further achieved by a production line for producing and / or processing a metallic product, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, comprising an induction heating device according to one of the features described here.

[0188] On a production line equipped with the present induction heating device, metallic goods can be heat-treated significantly more homogeneously, over the entire length of the respective metallic goods.

[0189] It is understood that the present production line may be provided with a processing device that mechanically processes the metallic material, or with several processing devices that operate in the same or different ways.

[0190] For this purpose, the metallic goods are transported along a transport route of the production line or a suitably equipped roller conveyor.

[0191] It is also understood that the production line may comprise further treatment or processing devices, such as separating devices, winding devices, separating devices, or the like. The object of the invention is also achieved by using the induction heating device underlying the invention according to one of the features described here and / or the operating method described here, and / or the production line described here.

[0192] Additional features or combinations of features of further advantageous embodiments of the present invention as well as effects and advantages thereof are described below.

[0193] It is advantageous if the control device is further configured to set, in particular continuously, a minimum distance, in particular a first minimum distance, between the metallic material and the coil in a central region between a head region and a foot region of the metallic material.

[0194] Particularly in the central region of the metallic material, an optimal spacing of the coil relative to the metallic material has been neglected to date. However, the present induction heating device advantageously allows a favorable spacing to be set even in the central region of the metallic material, thus consistently achieving optimal electrical efficiency on the metallic material. This allows for a particularly homogeneous heating pattern along the entire length of the metallic material.

[0195] This is all the more true if the sensor device operates continuously, since in this way any disturbance in the metallic material can be reliably detected in the central region, so that homogeneous heating can be ensured even more reliably in this region as well. The metallic material can be heated even more advantageously, in particular heat-treated more homogeneously, if the induction heating device additionally has: a second coil, in particular a second coil of a second oscillating circuit for generating a magnetic field for heating the metallic material, wherein the second coil is mounted displaceably in the vertical direction, wherein the second coil can be supplied with electrical energy by the energy supply device, an adjusting device for adjusting a position of the second coil along the vertical direction, in particular a second adjusting device,a sensor device having a second effective area, which is arranged in front of the second coil with respect to a conveying direction of the metallic material, in particular a second sensor device, in particular the second sensor device is arranged in front of the second coil with respect to the conveying direction of the metallic material, in particular the second sensor device is data-connected to the control device, for detecting a second geometric profile of the metallic material on a side of the metallic material corresponding to the second coil, in particular for detecting a second geometric profile of the metallic material relative to a reference plane, wherein the control device is set up to control and / or regulate a vertical position of the second coil, and wherein the control device is set up to, along the metallic material, in particular in the central region of the metallic material,taking into account the second geometric profile of the metallic material, to set, in particular continuously set, a second minimum distance between the metallic material and the second coil.

[0196] The second adjustment device can be implemented as a standalone device on the induction heating device, or alternatively, this second adjustment device is a structural component of the first adjustment device. The situation is similar with regard to the second sensor device, which is either a standalone device on the induction heating device or, alternatively, is designed as a structural component of the first sensor device.

[0197] The second coil can preferably be arranged opposite the side of the metallic material corresponding to the first coil.

[0198] The second geometry profile can also advantageously be related to the reference plane already described above.

[0199] The present induction heating device can be operated with a particularly advantageous electrical efficiency if the minimum distance, in particular the first minimum distance and / or the second minimum distance, along the metallic material, in particular also in the central region of the metallic material, is less than or equal to 50 mm, preferably less than or equal to 40 mm and particularly preferably less than or equal to 30 mm.

[0200] If the minimum distance is less than or equal to 20 mm, preferably less than or equal to 15 mm, and particularly preferably less than or equal to 10 mm, the induction heating device can be operated even more effectively. This allows for particularly efficient heating of the metallic material, which is due, among other things, to the still small air gap between the coil and the metallic material.

[0201] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous if the minimum distance, in particular the first minimum distance and / or the second minimum distance, along the metallic material, in particular in the central region of the metallic material, is greater than 0 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 2 mm and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 5 mm. This ultimately ensures the safety of the induction heating device against collisions with the metallic material, although greater safety due to a correspondingly larger set minimum distance is always accompanied by lower electrical efficiency.

[0202] If the first minimum distance and the second minimum distance differ by less than or equal to 5 mm, preferably by less than or equal to 3 mm and particularly preferably by less than or equal to 1 mm, a particularly homogeneous heating of the metallic material can be achieved.

[0203] This is essentially due to the fact that essentially the same minimum distances can be set on both sides of the metallic item, whereby comparable magnetic fields can act on the metallic item on both sides, so that comparable heating of the metallic item can be achieved on both sides.

[0204] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first coil is designed to heat the metallic material by means of transverse field induction, and / or the first coil and the second coil are designed to heat the metallic material by means of transverse field induction and / or longitudinal field induction.

[0205] With a single first coil, which is arranged only on one side of the metallic material, the induction heating device can be constructed more compactly. However, only transverse-field induction can be realized.

[0206] When using two coils, both a transverse field induction and a longitudinal field induction can be achieved, for example by the first coil and the second coil oscillating with a phase shift to each other, in particular with a phase shift of 180 °.

[0207] A preferred embodiment provides that the control device is designed to set a minimum head distance, in particular a first minimum head distance and / or a second minimum head distance, between the metallic material and a coil, in particular the first coil and / or the second coil, in the head region of the metallic material.

[0208] This allows for further improvement in the homogeneous heating of the head region of the metallic part relative to the remaining areas of the metallic part, resulting in a more consistent quality of the product manufactured from the metallic part. In particular, this also significantly reduces the scrap rate.

[0209] Similar to the base area of ​​the metallic product, there are almost always larger expected deformation deviations in the head area of ​​the metallic product, for example due to the cutting off of the cast strand by means of a cutting device or the like.

[0210] This is particularly the case with discontinuous production, such as in batch operations, in which a metallic material is treated intermittently, in particular thermally treated, and the latter then passes the induction device in batches.

[0211] However, critical deformation deviations can also be caused by other deformation patterns, such as ski deformations in the head or foot region of the metallic material and / or wave deformations, particularly in the middle region of the metallic material. In this respect, in an induction heating device with several coils, such as upper and lower coils, it is advantageous if the control device is designed to set a minimum foot distance, in particular a first minimum foot distance and / or a second minimum foot distance, between the metallic material and a coil, in particular the first coil and / or the second coil, in the foot region of the metallic material.

[0212] This allows for more homogeneous heating of the base area of ​​the metallic part relative to the remaining areas of the metallic part, resulting in a more consistent quality of the product manufactured from the metallic part. In particular, the scrap rate can be significantly reduced.

[0213] The collision safety with regard to the present induction heating device can also be further improved if the minimum head distance, in particular the first minimum head distance and / or the second minimum head distance, in the head region and / or the minimum foot distance, in particular the first minimum foot distance and / or the second minimum foot distance, in the foot region of the metallic material is greater by a factor of 1.1 than the minimum distance, in particular the first minimum distance and / or the second minimum distance, in the central region of the metallic material, preferably by a factor of 1.2 and particularly preferably by a factor of 1.3.

[0214] Such a selected factor is particularly advantageous because larger geometric profile deviations are to be expected, particularly in the tip and root regions, than in the intermediate central region of the metallic material. Further improved collision safety can be achieved with higher factor values, such as 1.4, 1.5, or 1.75, but this is at the expense of a uniformly achievable electrical efficiency along the metallic material.

[0215] A more uniform, homogeneous heating of the metallic material can be favorably influenced if the head region comprises less than or equal to 15% of a longitudinal extent of the metallic material, preferably less than or equal to 10% and particularly preferably less than or equal to 7.5%.

[0216] The situation is similar if the head region comprises less than or equal to 12.5% ​​of a longitudinal extent of the metallic material, preferably less than or equal to 5% and particularly preferably less than or equal to 2.5%.

[0217] It is equally advantageous if the foot region comprises less than or equal to 15% of a longitudinal extent of the metallic material, preferably less than or equal to 10% and particularly preferably less than or equal to 7.5%.

[0218] The situation is similar if the foot region comprises less than or equal to 12.5% ​​of a longitudinal extent of the metallic good, preferably less than or equal to 5% and particularly preferably less than or equal to 2.5%.

[0219] Furthermore, an operating method for operating an induction heating device for heating a metallic product, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, by means of a coil, in particular by means of a first coil, in particular an induction heating device according to one of the features described here is advantageous, which comprises the following steps: • Determination of a geometric profile of the metallic product, in particular a first geometric profile, with a sensor device, in particular with a first sensor device, on a side of the metallic product corresponding to the coil, in particular determination of a geometric profile of the metallic product relative to a reference plane, in particular relative to a reference plane of a conveying device for conveying the metallic product,in particular determining a target thickness of the metallic material, wherein an effective range, in particular a first effective range, of the sensor device is arranged in front of the coil with respect to a conveying direction of the metallic material, and,

[0220] • Adjustment, in particular continuous adjustment, of a position of the coil, in particular a position of the first coil, along a vertical direction, with an adjustment device, in particular a first adjustment device in a central region between a head region and a foot region of the metallic material, taking into account the geometric profile of the metallic material for setting a minimum distance, in particular a first minimum distance, between the metallic material and the coil.

[0221] By means of the method described here, the output of good parts or good material with regard to a metallic product inductively heat-treated by an induction heating device can be significantly improved, as has already been sufficiently described above.

[0222] In particular, the minimum distance may also be equal to the optimal distance to achieve an optimal result from the point of view of electrical efficiency.

[0223] It is particularly advantageous that the minimum distance from the metallic material, in particular from the head region of the metallic material, is set before and / or during the entry of the metallic material, in particular its head region, onto the coil. This ensures that the head region can also be supplied with optimum electrical efficiency.

[0224] An advantageous method variant provides an alternative operating method for operating an induction heating device for heating a metallic material, wherein the induction heating device has a second coil, in which the alternative operating method comprises the following steps:

[0225] • Determination of a second geometric profile of the metallic material with a sensor device, in particular with a second sensor device, on a side of the metallic material corresponding to the second coil, in particular determination of a second geometric profile of the metallic material relative to a reference plane, in particular relative to the reference plane of the conveying device for conveying the metallic material, wherein a second effective range of the sensor device is arranged in front of the second coil with respect to a conveying direction of the metallic material,

[0226] • Adjustment, in particular continuous adjustment, of a position of the second coil along a vertical direction, with an adjustment device, in particular a second adjustment device, in the central region of the metallic material, taking into account the second geometric profile of the metallic material for setting a second minimum distance between the metallic material and the second coil.

[0227] By means of this alternative process variant, the metallic material can be heated even more advantageously, in particular it can be heat-treated even more homogeneously.

[0228] In particular, when using two coils, both a transverse field induction and a longitudinal field induction can be carried out, for example by the first coil and the second coil oscillating with a phase offset to each other, in particular with a phase offset of 180 °.

[0229] A minimum distance which is advantageous in the sense of the present invention can be set in a simple and precise manner at the head region if the present operating method is further characterized by the following method step:

[0230] • Adjustment, in particular continuous adjustment, of a position of the first coil and / or the second coil along a vertical direction, with an adjustment device, in particular a first adjustment device and / or a second adjustment device, in the head region of the metallic material, taking into account the first geometric profile and / or the second geometric profile of the metallic material for setting a minimum head distance, in particular a first minimum head distance and / or a second minimum head distance.

[0231] It is equally advantageous if the present operating procedure is characterized by the following additional process step:

[0232] • Adjustment, in particular continuous adjustment, of a position of the first coil and / or the second coil along a vertical direction, with an adjustment device, in particular a first adjustment device and / or a second adjustment device, in the base region of the metallic material, taking into account the first geometric profile and / or the second geometric profile of the metallic material, for setting a minimum base distance, in particular a first minimum base distance and / or a second minimum base distance. An induction heating device for heating a metallic material, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, is also advantageous.

[0233] • wherein the induction heating device comprises an oscillating circuit for generating a magnetic field for heating the metallic material,

[0234] • wherein the resonant circuit comprises a capacitor device and a coil,

[0235] • wherein the induction heating device comprises a power supply device for supplying the oscillating circuit with electrical energy,

[0236] • wherein the induction heating device has an adjusting device for adjusting a position of the coil along the vertical direction,

[0237] • wherein the induction heating device has a sensor device for detecting a geometric profile of the metallic material,

[0238] • wherein the induction heating device comprises a control device for controlling and / or regulating a vertical position of the coil, wherein the control device is data-connected to the sensor device, wherein the control device is arranged for controlling and / or regulating a vertical position of the coil,

[0239] • wherein the induction heating device is configured to carry out a method according to one of the features described here.

[0240] By means of such an advantageous induction heating device, the effects and advantages described above can also be achieved. Advantageously, the homogeneous electrical efficiency and the associated particularly homogeneous heating can be generated over the entire length of the metallic item, in particular including the front head region of the metallic item and preferably also the rear foot region of the metallic item.

[0241] In this respect, it is advantageous if the coil can be controlled or regulated in such a way that a distance between the coil and the metallic material, starting from the incoming end face of the metallic material and ending at the outgoing end face of the metallic material, can always be adjusted in such a way that the metallic material can be treated with a desired, in particular optimal, electrical efficiency.

[0242] This allows the induction heating device to be continuously adapted specifically to an irregular geometric profile, even if such an irregularity only occurs partially with respect to the total length of the metallic material.

[0243] Thus, the position of the coil, in particular the height in the vertical direction, can be continuously corrected relative to the metallic material in order to always be able to maintain a homogeneous electrical efficiency in accordance with the invention.

[0244] In this respect, a continuous correction of the position of the induction heating device relative to the metallic material can be carried out depending on the geometric profile of the metallic material in order to always be able to maintain a homogeneous electrical efficiency in the sense of the invention.

[0245] In this context, it is also advantageous if the control device is designed so that the position of the induction heating device, in particular its coil, relative to the metallic material or a reference plane can be corrected as a function of the geometric profile of the metallic material in order to always be able to maintain the minimum distance in the sense of the invention.

[0246] In particular, the latter described induction heating device can be advantageously supplemented by further features described here.

[0247] In general, the features of the solutions described above or in the claims can also be combined in order to be able to implement the advantages and effects that can be achieved in a cumulative manner.

[0248] Further advantages, details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following exemplary embodiments.

[0249] Components which in the individual figures are at least substantially identical in terms of their function can be identified by the same reference symbols, although the components do not have to be numbered and explained in all figures.

[0250] The drawing shows:

[0251] Figure 1: schematically shows a first side view of an induction heating device for heating a metallic material, in which the metallic material is shown before entering the induction heating device; and

[0252] Figure 2: schematically shows a further side view of the induction heating device shown in Figure 1, in which the metallic material is shown as it passes through the induction heating device. The induction heating device 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 for heating a metallic material 2, wherein the metallic material 2 has a desired thickness 2A and an end face 2B.

[0253] The induction heating device 1 has two oscillating circuits 3 and 4 for generating a magnetic field (not shown) for heating the metallic material 2.

[0254] The two oscillating circuits 3 and 4 are supplied with electrical energy by a suitable energy supply device 5 of the induction heating device 1, wherein the oscillating circuit 3 has a coil 6 and the oscillating circuit 4 has a coil 7.

[0255] For the sake of clarity, all cable connections on the induction heating device 1, in particular with regard to the power supply and data lines between individual components, are not shown explicitly.

[0256] The induction heating device 1 has a working area 8 with regard to the coils 6 and 7, through which the metallic material 2 is guided for heat treatment.

[0257] The working area 8 is located below the first coil 6 and above the second coil 7, whereby such a working area 8 of the induction heating device 1 can also be realized by only one coil 6 or 7.

[0258] The first coil 6 is an upper coil (not numbered again) of the induction heating device 1, which is arranged above a central layer 9 of the induction heating device 1, which immediately creates a good reference structure 9A or a reference plane (not numbered again) on the induction heating device. The second coil 7 is a lower coil (not numbered again) of the induction heating device 1, which is accordingly arranged below the central layer 9.

[0259] The central layer 9 and thus also the reference structure 9A are arranged between the two coils 6 and 7 and along this central layer 9 the metallic material 2 is conveyed forward in the conveying direction 10 through the induction heating device 1, that is to say from left to right according to Figures 1 and 2.

[0260] The conveying direction 10 points in the machine direction 11 of the induction heating device 1 .

[0261] The central position 9 is defined by the working plane (not numbered again) of the induction heating device 1, wherein the central position 9 can alternatively also be defined by a roller table plane (not shown) of a roller table, also not shown, or by a conveyor device (also not shown) for conveying the metallic material 2 of a production line 12, not illustrated in detail here.

[0262] The coils 6 and 7 are each mounted independently of each other so as to be displaceable in the vertical direction 14 and are thus height-adjustable.

[0263] For adjusting the height of the coils 6 and 7, the induction heating device 1 has an adjusting device 16.

[0264] In this exemplary embodiment, the metallic material 2 has a normal target thickness 2A and a discontinuous geometric profile 18 with shape deviations 19 in the head region 21 of the metallic material 2 on the one hand and with a further shape deviation 22 in the central region 24 of the metallic material 2 on the other hand, which adjoins the head region 21. The induction heating device 1 also has detection or sensor devices 26 which, viewed in the conveying direction 10, are arranged in front of the respective coil 6 or 7, i.e. upstream of the coils 6 and 7.

[0265] In this respect, these detection or sensor devices 26 can reliably detect the geometric profiles 18 of the metallic material 2 on its surface sides 28 and 30, even before the metallic material 2 enters with its head region 21 into the coil region or working region 8 of the coils 6 and 7.

[0266] For this purpose, the detection or sensor devices 26 with their respective effective areas 32 and 33 can "scan" the respective corresponding surface sides 28 and 30 and in doing so can precisely record the geometric profiles 18 of the metallic material 2, in particular with all height differences 34.

[0267] Advantageously, the induction heating device 1 has a control device 40 for controlling and / or regulating vertical positions of the coils 6 and 7, respectively, wherein the control device 40 is data-connected to the detection or sensor device 26 in order to obtain data on the geometric profiles 18 of the metallic material 2.

[0268] The control device 40 is designed to set a flow distance 42 between the metallic material 2 and the respective coil 6 or 7 along the metallic material 2, i.e. in its longitudinal extension 41, taking into account the geometric profiles 18 of the metallic material 2, wherein the flow distance 42 is characterized in particular by an operating distance that is as minimal as possible (not specified again).

[0269] A particularly precise electrical efficiency with regard to the

[0270] Coils 6 and 7 can be realized if the coils 6 and 7 are continuously adjusted relative to the respective surface side 28 and 30, respectively, i.e. are in "flow" relative to the respective geometric profile 18.

[0271] The electrical efficiency between the coil 6 or 7 and the metallic material 2 is, for example, the same along at least one section 43 (shown only as an example) of the metallic material (2), but preferably over the entire length (not shown here) of the metallic material 2.

[0272] According to the illustration in Figure 1, the coils 6 and 7 are set by means of data on the target thickness 2A of the metallic material 2 with a minimum flow distance 42 relative to the surface sides 28 and 30 of the metallic material 2, respectively, before the metallic material 2 enters the coil area with its head side 21, so that the metallic material 2 can be inductively heated as effectively as possible on both sides.

[0273] In this embodiment, the induction heating device 1 has an activation position 45, from which the flow distance 42 for the head region 21 can be optimally adjusted and / or the coils 6 and 7 can be activated.

[0274] The activation position 45 is further arranged with a variably adjustable advance distance 46 in front of the respective coil 6 or 7.

[0275] The induction device 1 can be automated in such a way that, with the aid of the control device 40, the respective coil 6 or 7 is displaced into a vertical coil position 47 as soon as the head region 21 reaches or exceeds the activation position 45, whereby the vertical coil position 47 can be regarded as a first coil position 47 of the induction heating device 1, i.e. a quasi starting position (not numbered again) of the respective coil 6 or 7, in order to be able to already maintain the flow distance 42 in the sense of a designated flow distance 42.

[0276] According to the illustration in Figure 1, this means that the coils 6 and 7 will move up as soon as the end face 2B reaches the activation position 45, so that the coils 6 and 7 are each adjusted to the optimal flow distance 42 with regard to the shape deviations 19 in the head region 21. Currently, the flow distance 42 is still preset with respect to the target thickness 2A of the metallic material 2.

[0277] According to the illustration in Figure 2, the coils 6 and 7 are already displaced vertically in the direction 48 away from the metallic material, i.e. radially outwards, depending on the respectively detected geometric profile 18, in particular due to the shape deviations 19 in the head region 21, in order to be able to adjust the flow distance 42 with respect to the shape deviations 19 and 22.

[0278] Between the two shape deviations 19 and 22 on the first surface side 28, the coil 6 has been temporarily shifted closer towards the metallic material 2 in order to be able to ensure the advantageous flow distance 42 there as well.

[0279] The first coil 6 according to the illustration in Figure 2 has adjusted its position or coil position 47 due to the further shape deviation 22 in the central region 24 in order to have the minimum flow distance 42 compared to the shape deviation 22, wherein the second coil 7 is located in a provided coil position which represents an optimal flow distance 42.

[0280] Here, the second coil 7 has already been moved back toward the metallic material 2 behind the shape deviation 19 in the radially inward direction 49, in order to be displaced directly behind the shape deviation 19 back to the minimum flow distance 42 set in Figure 1. The first coil 6 will also be moved back toward the metallic material 2 and displaced back to the minimum flow distance 42 shown in Figure 1 as soon as the further shape deviation 22 has passed the first coil 6.

[0281] Overall, the induction heating device 1 thus achieves particularly homogeneous heating of the metallic material 2 over its entire length, whereby the base region of the metallic material 2 is not shown here.

[0282] At this point, it should be explicitly pointed out that the features of the solutions described above or in the claims and / or figures can also be combined if necessary in order to be able to implement or achieve the explained features, effects and advantages in a cumulative manner.

[0283] List of reference symbols

[0284] 1 induction heating device

[0285] 2 metallic goods

[0286] 2A Target thickness

[0287] 2B Front face or front side

[0288] 3 first (upper) resonant circuit

[0289] 4 second (lower) resonant circuit

[0290] 5 Energy supply facility

[0291] 6 first (upper) coil

[0292] 7 second (lower) coil

[0293] 8 Work area

[0294] 9 Middle position

[0295] 9A Reference structure or reference plane

[0296] 10 Conveying direction

[0297] 11 Machine direction

[0298] 12 production lines

[0299] 14 vertical direction

[0300] 16 Adjustment device

[0301] 18 geometry profiles

[0302] 19 form deviations

[0303] 21 Head area

[0304] 22 further form deviations

[0305] 24 middle range

[0306] 26 detection or sensor devices

[0307] 28 first (upper) surface side

[0308] 30 second (lower) surface side

[0309] 32 first (upper) effective range

[0310] 33 second (lower) effective range

[0311] 34 elevation differences

[0312] 40 Control device

[0313] 41 Longitudinal extension

[0314] 42 Flow distance or operating distance

[0315] Section 43

[0316] 45 Activation position Pre-run distance Vertical coil position Direction away from the metallic material Direction towards the metallic material

Claims

Patent claims 1. Induction heating device (1) for inductively heating a metallic item (2), having at least one oscillating circuit (3, 4) comprising a coil (6, 7) for generating a magnetic field which can interact with the metallic item (2) in a working area (8) of the coil (6, 7), and having a machine direction (11) along which the metallic item (2) can be transported through the working area (8), the coil (6, 7) being arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the metallic item (2) transversely to the machine direction (11), characterized in that the coil (6, 7) is already arranged on the coil (6, 7) or the machine direction (11) before and / or during the running-in of the metallic item (2).into the working area (8) of the coil (6, 7) relative to a surface side (28, 30) of the metallic material (2) which is opposite the coil (6, 7), at a flow distance (42) can be adjusted, by means of which a homogeneous electrical efficiency can be generated along the metallic material (2).

2. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical efficiency between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) along the metallic material (2) is always the same, or at most has a deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less than or equal to 5%.

3. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electrical efficiency between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) along the metallic material (2) at least along a section (43) of the metallic material (2) is the same, or at most has a deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less or equal to 5%, wherein a preferred section (43) including the head region (21) of the metallic item (2) amounts to at least 10% or 20%, preferably more than 30%, of the total length of the metallic item (2).

4. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the electrical efficiency between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) along the metallic material (2) is the same at least along a section (43) of the metallic material (2), or at most a Deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably less than or equal to 5%, wherein a preferred section (43) including the head region (21) of the metallic material (2) extends to at least 200 mm, 500 mm or 1000 mm behind the head region (21).

5. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the flow distance (42) in the head region (21) of the metallic material (2) and / or in the foot region of the metallic material (2) is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less.

6. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the flow distance (42) along the metallic material (2) is adjustable such that the flow distance (42) already in the head region (21) of the metallic material (2) corresponds to the flow distance (42) which is set in a central region (24) of the metallic material (2) downstream of the head region (21).

7. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the flow distance (42) with respect to the head region (21) of the metallic material (2) and an adjoining central region (24) of the metallic material (2) has a distance deviation of at most 20 % or less, preferably at most 10% or less, or particularly preferably at most 5% or less.

8. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the induction heating device (1) has a flow mode which can be activated, in particular before and / or while an end face (2B) of the metallic material (2) reaches the coil (6, 7), in particular the working area (8) of the coil (6, 7).

9. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the induction heating device (1) has an activation position (45) from which the flow distance (42) is set and / or the coil (6, 7) is activated, wherein the activation position (45) is arranged in front of and / or on the coil (6, 7), in particular in front of and / or on the working area (8) of the coil (6, 7).

10. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the activation position (45) is arranged with a lead distance (46) in front of the coil (6, 7), in particular in front of the working area (8) (8) of the coil (6, 7), wherein the lead distance (46) is greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 50 mm or particularly preferably greater than or equal to 100 mm.

11. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the activation position (45) is arranged with a lead distance (46) in front of the coil (6, 7), in particular in front of the working area (8) of the coil (6, 7), wherein the lead distance (46) is less than or equal to 1000 mm, preferably less than or equal to 500 mm or particularly preferably less than or equal to 200 mm.

12. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the advance distance (46) is dependent The speed of the metallic material (2) can be adjusted, in particular by the thickness (2A) of the metallic material (2), and / or by a shape deviation of the metallic material (2), in particular by the head region (21) of the metallic material (2), and / or by a conveying speed of the metallic material (2), or the like.

13. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by a control device (40) by means of which the vertical coil position (47) of the coil (6, 7), in particular the flow distance (42) of the coil (6, 7) relative to the metallic material (2), in particular relative to the head region (21) thereof, can be adjusted, in particular as a function of determined data from a detection device (26) for detecting information about the metallic material (2).

14. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the detection device (26) is designed to detect information on a shape and / or position of the metallic material (2), in particular on a shape and / or position of the head region (21) thereof and / or the foot region thereof, relative to a reference structure (9A).

15. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the detection device (26) is designed to detect information on a speed of the metallic material (2) relative to a reference structure (9, 9A).

16. Induction heating device (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the reference structure (9A) comprises a device of the induction heating device (1).

17. Induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that the detection device (26) is arranged upstream of the coil (6, 7) of the induction heating device (1).

18. Operating method for inductively heating a metallic item (2) by means of an induction heating device (1), in which the metallic item (2) is guided past at least one coil (6, 7) of the induction heating device (1) and is heat-treated by means of a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil (6, 7), the metallic item (2) being subjected in its head region (21) and its adjoining central region (24) to an electrical efficiency generated and acting homogeneously between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic item (2).

19. Operating method for inductively heating a metallic item (2) by means of an induction heating device (1), in which the metallic item (2) is guided past at least one coil (6, 7) of the induction heating device (1) and is heat-treated by means of a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil (6, 7), wherein a flow distance (42) is set between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic item (2), which flow distance is the same in the head region (21) of the metallic item (2) and in an adjoining central region (24) of the metallic item (2).

20. Operating method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that an electrical efficiency generated homogeneously between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) and / or a flow distance (42) set between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) in the head region (21) and in the adjoining central region (24) has at most a deviation of less than or equal to 20%, preferably of less than or equal to 10%, or particularly preferably of less than or equal to 5%.

21. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that an eclectic efficiency homogeneously generated between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) and / or an eclectic efficiency homogeneously generated between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) set flow distance (42) is always the same along the entire metallic material (2).

22. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that a flow distance (42) set between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) in the head region (21) and / or in the foot region is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less.

23. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 22, characterized in that a flow distance (42) between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2), in particular the head region (21) thereof, is determined before and / or while the head region (21) runs on the coil (6, 7) or into the working region (8) of the coil (6, 7).

24. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 23, characterized in that a flow distance (42) between the coil (6, 7) and the metallic material (2) is determined as a function of a shape of the head region (21) and / or of a position of the head region (21) relative to a reference structure (9A), such as a reference plane, before and / or while the head region (21) runs on the coil (6, 7) or into the working region (8) of the coil (6, 7).

25. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 24, characterized in that the coil (6, 7) is displaced into a vertical coil position (47) in order to achieve an optimal electrical efficiency and / or an optimal flow distance (42) before and / or while the head region (21) runs onto the coil (6, 7) or into the working region (8) of the coil (6, 7).

26. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 25, characterized in that a first vertical coil position (47) (start position) of the coil (6, 7) on the induction heating direction (1) depending on the determined flow distance (42) is set.

27. Operating method according to claim 26, characterized in that this first vertical coil position (47) is set from an activation position (45) of the induction heating device (1), wherein the activation position (45) is arranged in front of the coil (6, 7).

28. Operating method according to claim 27, characterized in that the activation position (45) is set variably, in particular depending on dimensions of the metallic material (2), in particular on the thickness (2A) of the metallic material (2), on a shape deviation of the metallic material (2), in particular on the head region (21) of the metallic material (2), and / or on a conveying speed of the metallic material (2), or the like.

29. Operating method according to one of claims 18 to 28, characterized in that the coil (6, 7) is moved into a vertical coil position (47) or into the flow distance (42) for optimum efficiency before and / or while the head region (21) runs on the coil (6, 7) or into the working region (8) of the coil (6, 7).

30. Method according to one of claims 18 to 29, characterized in that the magnetic field of the coil (6, 7) is activated before and / or during the running-in of the metallic material (2), in particular the head region (21) thereof, at the coil (6, 7) or into the working region (8) of the coil (6, 7).

31. Production line (12) for producing and / or processing a metallic product (2), in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of iron, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, comprising an induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17.

32. Use of an induction heating device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17 and / or an operating method according to one of claims 18 to 30 and / or a production line (12) according to claim 31.

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