4 Advice to Choose a crucibles manufacturer

MSE Supplies is your source for many types of crucibles, including MgO crucibles ranging from 10 mL to 100 mL, metal crucibles, ceramic crucibles, and high-purity lab crucibles. We also produce customized crucibles to your specifications from your applications. Request a quote today.

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What are Crucibles

Crucibles are essential lab tools that withstand extreme temperatures and harsh chemical conditions. They're containers crafted from high-purity materials like metals and ceramics, ensuring minimal contamination during use. Crucibles are integral to various scientific tasks, including melting, mixing, and analyzing samples under precise temperature and chemical control. With the diversity of materials available, such as Alumina, Zirconia, or Magnesium Oxide, it is critical to select the appropriate type of crucible for your specific application.

Types of Crucibles

What are crucibles made of? Crucibles comprise various materials, including metals, ceramics, and compounds, each suitable for different applications, often based on the crucible melting point. MSE Supplies offers many types of crucibles, including:

• Alumina Crucibles: Widely used due to their high melting points and chemical resistance. Ideal for routine lab research.
• Magnesium Oxide Crucibles: These can withstand ultra-high temperatures and are often preferable to lithium solid-state electrolyte synthesis.
• Zirconia Crucibles: Known for their excellent wear resistance and are suitable crucibles for melting precious metals and super-alloys.
• Boron Nitride Crucibles: Highlighted for their high thermal conductivity and excellent thermal shock resistance.
• Graphite Crucibles: They are the best crucibles for melting metal and induction heating because of their high-temperature resistance.
• Porcelain Crucibles: Economical choice for applications with temperatures below °C.
• Quartz Crucibles: Excellent for material melting and chemical reactions in tube furnaces due to their thermal shock resistance and chemical inertness.

Order High-Quality Crucibles from MSE Supplies

When you choose MSE Supplies for all types of crucibles, you can count on the following:

• Superior Quality: Our crucibles deliver reliable performance under extreme conditions, crafted from high-purity materials.
• Broad Variety: We offer all types of crucibles in various materials like Alumina, Zirconia, and Magnesium Oxide for diverse applications.
• Expert Assistance: Our experienced team provides insights into the best crucible for melting metal or your unique needs.

Order all types of crucibles from MSE Supplies today. We offer the best quality crucibles in the industry for the lowest prices. Our in-house materials scientists are committed to providing exceptional service and advice. Check out our special offers and programs, then order online or request a quote. 

If you have any questions, we’re here to help! Contact us online, or call at (520)789-.

What are the Factors for Selecting a Crucible?

There are several factors one needs to consider when selecting a crucible, this can seem a daunting task because there are several things to consider. These factors can range from needed volume, the shape, and the chemical reactions between the crucible and the chemicals you put in it no name just a couple. Here is a list of some of the most important factors to consider when selecting a crucible. 

• What temperature will the crucible need to withstand?
• What material crucible will be selected?
• Is the material in the crucible going to react with the crucible?
• Is the ramp rate being used going to thermally shock the crucible?
• Is there a thermal gradient across the crucible, if so how will that affect the crucible?
• What volume crucible will I need?
• Will the geometry of the crucible be important?
• Will the crucible fit in the furnace?
• Is the crucible going to be used more than once?

This might seem a daunting list of questions to answer, but if you have ever chosen the wrong crucible for the job and ended up rebuilding your furnace you know the importance of answering these questions. If you need help choosing please continue reading this article. If you still need help our knowledgeable staff at MSE Supplies are here to help. Please feel free to us at to help you select a suitable crucible for your needs. 

What crucibles materials do MSE Supplies offer?

Alumina (Al2O3) Crucibles

Alumina crucibles (Al2O3) are widely used due to its versatility and its low cost. It is the most commonly used crucible for lab research use. The material has a high melting point is and relatively chemically inert. MSE Supplies offers a wide variety of shapes and sizes of Alumina crucibles.  If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at . 

• Melting point – 2,072 °C
• Recommended Max working temperature – 1,600 °C
• Max ramp rate - 5 °C/min < °C or 4 °C/min > °C
• Max cooling rate - 2 °C/min
• Avoid Thermal gradients
• High Purity Alumina Rectangular Boat Crucibles at MSE Supplies
• High Purity Alumina Cylindrical Crucibles at MSE Supplies
• High Purity Alumina High Form Crucibles at MSE Supplies
• High Purity Alumina Sample Pans to TGA and DCS at MSE Supplies

Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Crucibles

Magnesium Oxide (MgO) crucibles are good for ultra high temperatures and have a better chemical resistivity than that of alumina. MgO crucibles are usually inert to metals, slags, and superconducting compounds. When MgO crucibles are used in lithium solid state electrolyte synthesis or sintering, MgO has its own unique advantage of not reacting with lithium unlike Al2O3 crucibles, therefore it maintains the lithium vapor pressure better without causing access lithium loss in the solid state electrolyte. If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at . 

• Melting point – 2,852 °C
• Recommended Max working temperature – 2,200 °C
• Max ramp rate - 3 °C/min
• Max cooling rate - 3 °C/min
• Avoid thermal Gradients
• 10 ml Magnesium Oxide Crucibles at MSE Supplies
• 50 ml Magnesium Oxide Crucibles at MSE Supplies
• 100 ml Magnesium Oxide Crucibles at MSE Supplies
• Magnesium Oxide Rectangular Boat Crucibles at MSE Supplies

Zirconia (ZrO2) Crucibles

Zirconia (ZrO2) crucibles have excellent wear, chemical and temperature resistance. It can withstand high temperatures. It is ideal for applications which require temperatures higher than Alumina crucibles can withstand temperature (°C), such as melting of precious metals and super-alloys which have melting point higher than °C. If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at .   

• Melting point – 2,715 °C
• Recommended Max working temperature – °C (air);  °C (N2 or Vacuum)
• Max ramp rate - 5 °C/min
• Max cooling rate - 5 °C/min
• High Purity Zirconia High Form Crucibles at MSE Supplies

Boron Nitride (BN) Crucibles

Boron Nitride (BN) crucibles are a synthetic technical ceramic material. It has outstanding thermal characteristics: high thermal conductivity (751 W/mK) and excellent thermal shock resistance. The unique property of BN crucible is that it is non-wetting with molten metal. It is widely used for crystal growth, melting metals, rare earth materials, fluorides, glass, silicon, molten salt and luminescent materials. It is ideal for oxygen sensitive applications. If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at . 

• Melting point – 2,973 °C
• Recommended Max working temperature – 900 °C (air),  °C (vacuum), °C (N2 or Ar)
• Max ramp rate - 50 °C/min
• Max cooling rate – can quench
• High Purity Boron Nitride Cylindrical Crucibles at MSE Supplies

Graphite (C) Crucibles

Graphite (C) crucibles are made from high purity (>99.9%) graphite raw material. It has unique features such as high temperature resistance, excellent acid and alkali resistance, good thermal shock resistance, excellent thermal/electrical conductivity and high mechanical strength. It is widely used for induction heating and metal melting, such as Ag, Au, Cu and Al metals.  If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at . 

• Melting point – 3,600 °C (non-oxidizing environment)
• Recommended Max working temperature – 400 °C (air), °C (non-oxidizing environment)
• High Purity Cylindrical Graphite Crucibles at MSE Supplies

Porcelain Crucibles

Porcelain crucibles have good wear resistance, high temperature tolerance, excellent cold crushing and thermal shock resistance, and excellent chemical corrosion resistance. It is widely used for metallurgy, glass melting, gemstone purification, chemical industry and material science. It is the most economical crucible for applications with temperature lower than °C. If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at . 

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• Recommended Max working temperature – °C
• Max ramp rate - 3 °C/min
• Max cooling rate – 3 °C/min
• High Form Porcelain Crucibles at MSE Supplies

Quartz Crucibles

Quartz crucibles (>99.99%) have excellent thermal shock resistance and are chemically inert to most elements and compounds, including virtually all acids, regardless of concentration, except hydrofluoric acid. They are widely used for material melting and chemical reactions in tube furnaces. If you need a size or shape not listed on our website, please us at . 

• Melting point – 1,670 °C (non-oxidizing environment)
• Recommended Max working temperature – 1,200 °C
• Max ramp rate - 3 °C/min
• Max cooling rate – 3 °C/min
• High Purity Quartz Boat Crucibles at MSE Supplies

MSE Supplies  (msesupplies.com/) is a major supplier of crucibles.  MSE Supplies offers a wide range of high purity lab crucibles, including Alumina (Al2O3), Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), Magnesium Oxide (MgO), Boron Nitride (BN), Porcelain, Graphite (Carbon), Copper (Cu), Molybdenum (Mo), Nickel (Ni), Tantalum (Ta), Tungsten (W), Zirconium (Zr), PTFE and more.  Customized lab crucibles are available upon request.  Find popular high purity laboratory crucibles for sale at MSE Supplies. 

PBN crucibles are essential in high-temperature and vacuum applications. They are widely used in industries like semiconductor manufacturing, crystal growth, and OLED production. Choosing the right crucible shape and type is crucial for achieving optimal results. This guide will help you understand the different shapes and types of PBN crucibles available. It will enable you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

Understanding Crucibles

What is PBN?

Pyrolytic Boron Nitride (PBN) is a high-performance ceramic material. It is known for its thermal stability and chemical resistance. PBN is made through a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. This process results in a pure, dense, and strong material. PBN’s non-reactive nature makes it ideal for high-purity environments, like semiconductor manufacturing. It withstands extreme temperatures and resists contamination, making it a preferred choice in various high-tech industries.

Why Choose PBN Crucibles?

PBN crucibles offer many advantages. They don’t contaminate the materials they hold, which is crucial in processes where even small impurities can impact quality. PBN crucibles also have excellent thermal shock resistance. They can endure rapid temperature changes without cracking. This durability makes them reliable for repeated use in demanding environments. Additionally, PBN crucibles are electrically insulating, making them suitable for processes where electrical conductivity must be avoided.

Common Shapes of Crucibles

Crucibles come in various shapes, each designed for specific applications. Understanding these shapes will help you choose the right one for your process.

Cylindrical Crucibles

Cylindrical crucibles are often used when uniform heating is required. Their round shape ensures even heat distribution across the material. This consistent heating is vital in processes like crystal growth, where temperature uniformity influences crystal quality. Cylindrical crucibles are available in various sizes. They are versatile and suitable for many applications, making them popular in different industries.

Conical Crucibles

Conical crucibles have a tapered design that makes pouring and collecting materials easier. The shape allows molten materials to flow smoothly without spilling. Conical crucibles are especially useful in metal evaporation processes. In these processes, precise material transfer is essential to avoid waste and ensure consistency. The narrow bottom of the conical crucible also helps concentrate heat, making it efficient for processes needing localized heating.

Boat Crucibles

Boat crucibles are shaped like small boats and are used in horizontal heating setups. Their elongated design allows for even spreading of materials. This feature is beneficial in thin-film deposition processes like Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD). Boat crucibles are easy to load and unload. This convenience is important in processes that involve repeated applications of thin layers. The design also reduces the risk of material overflow during heating.

Rectangular Crucibles

Rectangular crucibles provide a flat surface, ideal for spreading materials uniformly. This shape is commonly used in chemical reactions where even heating is required. Rectangular crucibles are also suitable for processes where the material needs to stay in place, such as in solid-state reactions. The flat surface ensures consistent contact with the heating source, leading to uniform temperature distribution.

Specific Types of PBN Crucibles and Their Applications

Beyond general shapes, specific types of PBN crucibles are designed for particular processes. Understanding these types helps you choose the right crucible for specialized applications.

MBE Type Crucible

Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) is a precise technique used to deposit thin films of materials onto substrates. MBE Type PBN crucibles are designed for this process. They ensure high-purity and high-precision material deposition. These crucibles are crucial in semiconductor manufacturing. In these processes, thin layers of materials like gallium arsenide (GaAs) are deposited to create electronic components. MBE crucibles minimize contamination and ensure consistent deposition, which is vital for producing high-quality semiconductors.

LEC Type Crucible

The Liquid Encapsulated Czochralski (LEC) method grows high-quality single crystals like GaAs, which are vital in the semiconductor industry. LEC Type PBN crucibles are built to handle the tough conditions of this process. They hold the molten material from which the crystal is drawn. The crucible's purity and stability are crucial because contamination can harm the crystal's quality. LEC crucibles ensure smooth crystal growth, leading to high-quality crystals with minimal defects.

OLED Type Crucible

Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) fabrication requires precise control over the materials and processes used. OLED Type PBN crucibles are tailored for this purpose. They ensure that the materials used in OLED production are handled with the highest purity. These crucibles are designed to withstand the specific conditions of OLED production, such as high temperatures and reactive environments. Using these specialized crucibles helps achieve uniform thin-film deposition, which is critical for the performance of OLED displays.

VGF Type Crucible

The Vertical Gradient Freeze (VGF) method is used to grow large single crystals, such as germanium, which are used in infrared optics and semiconductor applications. VGF Type PBN crucibles are designed to hold the material during the crystal growth process. The design ensures uniform temperature distribution. This uniformity is essential for producing large, defect-free crystals. The high purity of PBN crucibles prevents contamination, ensuring that the crystals meet the strict quality standards required for high-tech applications.

Choosing the Right PBN Crucible for Your Application

Selecting the right crucible involves understanding your specific process requirements. Here’s how you can make the best choice:

1. Evaluate Your Needs

Start by considering the materials you will be working with and the temperatures involved. Determine whether you need uniform heating, efficient pouring, or precise material deposition. For example, if your process requires even heating, a cylindrical crucible might be the best choice. If you need to pour molten material, a conical crucible could be ideal.

2. Match the Shape and Type to Your Application

Choose a crucible shape that aligns with your process. For example, use boat or rectangular crucibles in horizontal processes. For specialized processes like MBE, LEC, OLED, or VGF, select the corresponding crucible type. Each shape and type of crucible is designed to optimize specific aspects of these processes. These aspects include improving material flow, enhancing heat distribution, or ensuring purity.

3. Consider Size and Capacity

Ensure that the crucible’s size and shape can hold the required material for your process. The crucible should also fit within your equipment without any issues. Consider the scale of your operation—whether it’s a small batch or large-scale production—and choose a crucible that matches your needs.

The company is the world’s best crucibles manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

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