ABSTRACT
The unique heating mechanisms of microwaves and dielectrics permit dramatic energy savings in many instances, as well as providing other benefits. Thermal conductivity often plays a lesser role in microwave and dielectric heating than in conventional heating because of the great speed with which the former heat thus reducing the time in which thermal conductivity can be effective. Heating and drying with microwave and dielectric energy is distinctly different from conventional means. The mechanism for drying with microwave and dielectric energy is quite different from that for ordinary drying. The heating mechanisms for microwave and dielectric heating are similar, but the means of achieving them are somewhat different. The means of applying microwave and dielectric energy to a work piece differ in a very significant manner. Microwave energy may be transported through free space and must be focused upon the load.
