When multiple commercial induction cookers are used in parallel, the core objective of their power distribution mechanism is to achieve stable operation and efficient coordination among the devices, avoiding tripping, equipment damage, or reduced cooking efficiency due to power conflicts. This mechanism involves three main aspects: circuit design, control algorithms, and load matching, requiring both hardware configuration and software control.
From a circuit design perspective, when multiple commercial induction cookers are connected in parallel, a three-phase power supply system should be prioritized. The symmetry of three-phase power balances the load of each phase, reducing the risk of neutral current overload. For example, in scenarios such as hot pot restaurants, if single-phase power is used, the inductive load of multiple induction cookers can cause current phase shifts, potentially leading to neutral current exceeding phase current, causing overheating or even fire. Three-phase power supply, by distributing the load, significantly reduces this risk. Furthermore, the independent circuit design for each induction cooker is also crucial. High-power models (such as those above 6000W) require dedicated circuits to avoid voltage fluctuations caused by sharing circuits with other devices. For example, a fast-food restaurant experienced frequent power outages because it connected two 5000W induction cookers to the same circuit. The problem was resolved after switching to independent circuits.
Control algorithms are key to achieving dynamic power allocation. Modern commercial induction cookers often employ microprocessors (MCUs) or digital signal processors (DSPs) to adjust their output power by monitoring grid frequency, voltage, and current parameters in real time. For instance, when multiple induction cookers are running simultaneously, the control system prioritizes power allocation to devices with higher demand (such as those actively stir-frying), while reducing power output from idle devices. This "on-demand allocation" mechanism is similar to the Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG) technology in microgrids, achieving smooth power distribution by simulating the inertia and damping characteristics of a synchronous generator. A case study from a canteen showed that after adopting this technology, three 3000W induction cookers connected in parallel could stably output a total power of 9000W during peak hours without tripping.
Load matching technology further optimizes power allocation efficiency. The heating principle of a commercial induction cooker is to generate a magnetic field using high-frequency current, causing the iron cookware to heat up. If multiple cookware units use cookware of significantly different materials and sizes, it can lead to inconsistent load impedance and uneven power distribution. For example, concave and flat cooktops have different coil designs; mixing them may cause some units to overheat. Therefore, high-end commercial induction cookers are equipped with intelligent recognition functions that automatically adjust output power by detecting cookware parameters. Test data from a certain brand's 5000W induction cooker shows that it can recognize iron cookware with diameters from 12cm to 32cm and automatically match the optimal power, ensuring that efficiency loss is less than 5% when multiple units are connected in parallel.
The coordinated design of the cooling system is also crucial for power distribution. High-power commercial induction cookers generate a lot of heat during prolonged operation; poor heat dissipation can lead to power derating or even shutdown. When multiple units are connected in parallel, a unified airflow design or independent cooling modules are needed to ensure that the temperature of each unit is controlled within a safe range. For example, a chain restaurant uses a 6000W induction cooker whose cooling fan speed can dynamically adjust according to the unit temperature. When multiple units are running simultaneously, the system prioritizes cooling the hotter units, avoiding power limitations due to overheating. Furthermore, the uniformity of communication protocols is crucial for the stability of power distribution. Multiple commercial induction cookers need to exchange data via CAN bus, RS485, or wireless communication (such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) to share information on power grid status and equipment demand. For example, 10 induction cookers in a hotel kitchen are managed centrally by a controller that can monitor the power usage of each device in real time and automatically reduce the power of unnecessary devices during peak electricity consumption periods to ensure the stable operation of the core cooktop.
The power distribution mechanism for multiple commercial induction cookers operating in parallel is a complex systems engineering project involving circuit design, control algorithms, load matching, heat dissipation coordination, and communication protocols. Through the comprehensive application of technologies such as three-phase power supply, dynamic control, intelligent load identification, efficient heat dissipation, and unified communication, efficient and stable operation of multiple devices can be achieved, meeting the stringent requirements of commercial kitchens for cooking efficiency and safety.
