The choice of heating elements for laboratory tube furnaces depends on temperature requirements, material compatibility, and operational conditions. Below is a systematic selection guide:
Low-Temperature Range (250–1250°C)
Resistance Wire (Fe-Cr-Al/Ni-Cr-Al Alloys): Cost-effective with precise temperature control (±1°C), ideal for general heat treatment and ceramic sintering.
Infrared Lamps: Suitable for non-contact rapid heating.
Thermocouple Pairing: Use K-type thermocouples for temperature monitoring.
Medium-High Temperature Range (1200–1600°C)
Silicon Carbide (SiC) Rods: Excellent oxidation resistance and long lifespan; typically installed vertically on both sides of the furnace chamber.
Thermocouple Pairing: S-type thermocouples ensure higher accuracy
Ultra-High Temperature Range (1600–1800°C)
Molybdenum Disilicide (MoSi₂) Rods: Stable performance at extreme temperatures (up to 1750°C) with protective oxide layer formation. Avoid prolonged use below 800°C to prevent brittleness.
Thermocouple Pairing: B-type thermocouples are mandatory.
Specialized High-Temperature Applications (>1800°C)
Graphite/Tungsten Elements: Requires inert gas or vacuum environments.
Temperature Uniformity: Use multi-zone heating layouts (e.g., symmetrical or环形 arrangements) to enhance thermal homogeneity.
Lifespan & Maintenance:
Replace SiC rods in groups to maintain resistance balance (±10% tolerance).
Avoid rapid thermal cycling for MoSi₂ rods.
Cost Efficiency:
Resistance wires are economical for short-term/low-frequency experiments.
MoSi₂ offers long-term stability despite higher upfront costs.
Thermocouple Mismatches: Using K-type thermocouples with MoSi₂ elements causes measurement errors.
.
Atmospheric Incompatibility: SiC degrades in reducing atmospheres; select elements based on gas environment
Mechanical Stress: MoSi₂ rods are fragile—avoid bending or impact during installation.
Aligning heating elements with experimental requirements ensures efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Always validate specifications with suppliers
Related Products