Channel induction holding furnace
Refractory lining of induction holding furnaces for the foundry

The 1930s saw the first applications of electric induction furnaces in foundries. The channel furnace was the first to be used industrially. From 1955 onwards, the automotive industry's needs were considerable, and the use of this equipment grew rapidly, particularly in cast iron and copper alloy foundries. Until the 1970s, induction furnaces operated mainly at mains frequency (50 Hz), and development focused on increasing their capacity to around 100 tonnes for holding furnaces.