Induction bolt heater - worth it?

[PetroleumJunkie412]

Looking at one of the induction bolt heaters on them there internet...

Anyone have one? Worth the $400? Pros? Cons?

 

[Uncle Gump]

I know @Snoranger uses one...

$400 is north of the ones I was looking at.... it must be a dandy.

I can see it being a pretty handy arrow to have in the quiver.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

Yeah, I’ve thought of getting one for when a torch isn’t exactly practical because of burnable things near where I need the heat

 

[holyford86]

They're really handy for where you need to make metal nearly melt without fire, I use one regularly, highly recommended.

 

[fastpakr]

Definitely on my list. Lots of options online that appear to be passable for about $150.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I really want one. I really need one to replace the seat belts in my truck.

After that I don't know how much I would use it.

 

[Snoranger]

I use mine all the time. I really only use the torch to cut metal and catch things on fire. I use my Mini-ductor to heat seized bolts and nuts.

 

[holyford86]

I really want one. I really need one to replace the seat belts in my truck.

After that I don't know how much I would use it.

You find uses, they're handy, I've even used one to form some round rod before.

 

[Curious Hound]

I bought a 1600watt one. Not impressed yet for the few times I've tried it. It did work. But maybe doesn't get as hot as I want. Or maybe I'm not using it right.

I really want a good torch setup.

 

[PetroleumJunkie412]

The one in question:

https://a.co/d/0jm1HFW9

Spendy? Yes. Made in USA? Yes.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I finally remembered why I saved the heater coils from the dumpster. Some type of special metal that I don't remember the name of. I want to try making my own bolt buster... It will be a steep learning curve as I've never used a tig before and I don't know if the metal is weldable anyway.

Edit; looks like factory used crimps. I have crimps..

 

[Curious Hound]

Nichrome?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Nichrome?

Yes, thanks

 

[PetroleumJunkie412]

I use mine all the time. I really only use the torch to cut metal and catch things on fire. I use my Mini-ductor to heat seized bolts and nuts.

Owning GM products has necessitated one. I have to do manifolds on a 6l - really don't want to set the thing on fire with a rosebud (I would be doing it a favor).

 

[Curious Hound]

Ya know. The whole idea behind the induction heater is that the coil is NOT a resistance heater made of nichrome. It works by inducing eddy currents in the metal you stick in the center. Tje eddy currents react with the natural resistance of the material itself to create heat. The coil itself is very effective made of copper.