Dynamic model for calculating heating patterns during microwave sintering

In this paper the authors describe a thermal model that calculates the temperature distribution in ceramic samples and insulation under realistic sintering conditions. The calculation process involves a two-step procedure. The first step is to calculate the microwave power deposition in the sample and surrounding insulation. 3D FDTD calculations described in a companion paper are used for this purpose. The other step involves calculation of the temperature distribution using a 3D finite-difference heat-transfer program developed in our department. Results illustrating the effect of thickness of insulation and the placement of SiC rods in picket-fence arrangement are presented