Author(s): Lucas M Ferreira, Anna K Novak and Marco R De Santis

Abstract: Domestic pressure cookers are widely used household thermal devices, and their performance is strongly influenced by the thermophysical stability of the construction material under repeated heating and cooling. Continuous exposure to elevated temperatures, internal pressure, and cyclic thermal loading can gradually alter heat transfer efficiency, surface integrity, and structural reliability. This research presents an experimental assessment of the thermal performance of commonly used domestic pressure cooker materials subjected to repeated heating cycles under controlled laboratory conditions. Aluminium alloy, stainless steel, and hard anodized aluminium vessels were evaluated for heating rate, heat retention, temperature uniformity, and energy efficiency across multiple cycles. Standardized water heating tests were conducted using identical heat inputs, while surface and internal temperatures were monitored using calibrated thermocouples. The variation in time to reach operating pressure and cooling duration was recorded for each cycle. Results indicate that aluminium-based cookers exhibited faster initial heating but showed measurable degradation in thermal response after repeated cycles, whereas stainless steel demonstrated superior thermal stability with marginal variation in performance. Hard anodized aluminium presented a balance between rapid heat transfer and resistance to cyclic degradation. The findings highlight the role of material properties such as thermal conductivity, specific heat, and oxidation resistance in long-term cooker performance. The research also discusses implications for domestic energy consumption, cooking efficiency, and user safety. By systematically comparing material behavior under repeated thermal stress, this work provides practical insights for manufacturers and consumers regarding material selection and durability. The outcomes are expected to contribute to improved design strategies for pressure cooking appliances with enhanced thermal reliability and extended service life. Such evidence-based evaluation supports sustainable product development and informed household choices while aligning material engineering considerations with long-term performance expectations in everyday cooking environments under diverse usage conditions and repeated operational stresses encountered during routine domestic use globally.

DOI: 10.22271/27078043.2026.v7.i1a.112

Pages: 41-45 | Views: 47 | Downloads: 19

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