How does a microwave turntable work?

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Many microwave ovens have a turntable that rotates food during operation. A small electrical motor mounted in the bottom of the oven operates this turntable and helps ensure that food is cooked evenly.

Electric Motor Structure

An electric motor is, at its simplest level, made up of a loop of wire held in between the two poles of a magnet.

Basic Electric Motor Function

When alternating current is supplied to the loop of wire, it interacts with the magnet's magnetic field, causing the loop to spin.

Alternate Electric Motor Function

Alternatively, the magnet may be replaced with an electromagnet that changes its magnetic field regularly due to alternating current. This fluctuation produces a changing magnetic field that also causes the loop of wire to spin.

Gears

Microwave turntables usually rotate at a fairly slow rate. The rotation from the motor may be slowed down in a gearbox before being transmitted to the turntable.

Turntable Benefits

Rotating food in a microwave ensures that energy from the microwave oven is equally distributed, prevent some spots from being overcooked or undercooked.

Source:

Georgia State University: Induction Motors

Georgia State University: AC Motors

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How does a microwave turntable work?

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