Microwave Power; How The Microwave Function Works - Miele H6800BMX Operating And Installation Instructions

Microwave power

How the microwave function
works
In a microwave oven there is a high-
frequency tube called a magnetron.
This converts electrical energy into
microwaves. These microwaves are
distributed evenly throughout the oven
interior, and rebound off the metal sides
of the oven interior to reach the food
from all sides.
In order for microwaves to reach the
food, they must be able to penetrate the
cooking utensil being used. Microwaves
can penetrate porcelain, glass,
cardboard and plastics, but not metal.
Do not, therefore, use utensils made of
metal, or which contain metal, for
example in the form of gold or silver
trim. The metal reflects the microwaves
and this could cause sparking as the
microwaves cannot be absorbed.
Microwaves pass through a suitable
container and find their way directly into
the food. All food contains moisture
molecules which, when subjected to
microwave energy, start to oscillate
2.5 billion times a second. The friction
caused by this vibration creates heat,
which first starts developing around the
outside of the food and then slowly
penetrates towards the centre. The
moisture, fat and sugar content of food
will affect the speed at which it is
heated or cooked. The heat is
generated in the food itself.
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Advantages
– Food can generally be cooked
without adding much liquid or
cooking oil.
– Cooking, reheating and defrosting is
quicker than using conventional
methods.
– Nutrients, such as vitamins and
minerals, are generally retained.
– The colour, texture and taste of food
are not significantly impaired.
Microwaves stop being produced as
soon as the cooking process is
interrupted or the appliance door is
opened. When the appliance is in
operation, the closed, sealed door
prevents microwaves escaping from
the appliance.
Microwave power
The following power levels can be
selected:
80 W, 150 W, 300 W, 450 W, 600 W,
850 W, 1000 W