Economic Assessment of Microwave and Radio-Frequency Materials Processing

Abstract

ABSTRACTDielectric heating has clearly demonstrated its production benefits in many materials processing applications. It is, however, a relatively expensive technology and its use vis a vis less expensive alternatives must be justified by a thorough economic analysis of all factors relevant to the given application. These include not only direct production costs, but also less easily quantified “implicit” factors such as product quality, reduced impact on the external environment, and improved workplace environment.An economic model which includes both production cost considerations and implicit factors in dielectric heating applications is under development. This paper will focus on the capital and operating costs of dielectric heating equipment and the factors which influence these costs. Capital and operating cost information was obtained from radio-frequency and microwave suppliers and consultants in the United States. Mail-out questionnaires were followed up by extensive telephone discussions to correlate and clarify data. The intent was to identify the major cost components of dielectric heating equipment and to summarize the qualitative and quantitative factors which affect them. Since microwave and radio-frequency equipment are distinctly different in design and application, they are treated separately.