  This work proposes a methodology combining distributed and lumped models to
simulate the current distribution in an indirect heat resistance furnace and,
in particular, to compute the current to be supplied in order to obtain a
desired power. The distributed model is a time-harmonic eddy current problem
which has been numerically solved by using a finite element method. The lumped
model is based on the computation of a reduced impedance associated to an
equivalent circuit model. The effectiveness of the method has been assessed by
numerical simulations and plant measurements. The good correlation between the
results reveals this approximation is well-suited in order to aid the design
and improve the efficiency of the furnace in a short-time.
