As far as I understand, induction cookers transfer current (via eddy current) to the pot which heats up due to its resistance to the current. Because of this, induction pots and pans should be ferromagnetic for the eddy current to work. Therefore magnets should stick to the pot.
Now here's the thing. I was able to use a non-magnetic pot for cooking. All parts of the pot (screws, handle, body, cover) doesn't stick to magnets and yet it works when it's not supposed to be. I am not sure what alloy the pot has nor proof marks for that. The magnets I have are a neodymium and a ceramic one.
I only used the pot to boil instant noodles. My mother was surprised by this.
Looking this up, I can't seem to find an explanation. Any ideas?
Thank you and stay safe~
[EDIT] I tried hanging the magnets on a string and slowly held the pot closer and closer, no reaction.
Best Answer
It is likely that it was a different metal that supports inductive currents, such as aluminium.
The problem with aluminium is not that it can't create inductive current and heat up. It can, but it is rather inefficient on induction. Also, it has a very low melting point, so with thin aluminium, you risk melting it.
Many induction units have artificially added constraints to not work if they don't sense a ferromagnetic pan of a certain size, aswhich is a safety feature. Maybe yours doesn't, and so you were able to heat your pot. This doesn't make it a good idea to continue - even if you don't run into trouble with melting, you are losing much of the advantages of induction cooking.