Which furnace is commonly used for melting ferrous metals?

The induction furnace is commonly used for melting ferrous metals due to its efficient heating capabilities and ability to achieve high temperatures quickly. This type of furnace employs electromagnetic induction to heat the metal, which allows for precise control over the melting process. The technology provides several advantages, including enhanced energy efficiency, reduced contamination of the metal, and faster melting times compared to traditional furnaces.

Ferrous metals, which include iron and its alloys, require specific melting processes to ensure proper properties in the final product, and induction furnaces can facilitate these requirements effectively. The ability to adjust the melting process allows for better control over the metallurgical characteristics of the ferrous metals being produced.

In contrast, other furnace types mentioned in the options serve different purposes. For example, annealing and tempering furnaces are primarily used for heat treatment processes, focusing on altering the microstructure of metals to relieve stresses, increase toughness, or improve ductility rather than for melting. The normalizing furnace is also used for heat treatment, specifically for refining grain structures and ensuring uniform mechanical properties, rather than directly melting metals. Therefore, the induction furnace stands out as the most appropriate choice for melting ferrous metals.