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1. Standard Sizes and Dimensions
Silicon carbide crucibles (SiC) are manufactured in a variety of sizes to suit different furnace types and melting capacities:
| Model | Top Outer Diameter (mm) | Height (mm) | Bottom Outer Diameter (mm) | Compatible Furnace Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4000 | 910 | 1850 | 880 | Large-capacity electric/induction furnaces |
| 3000 | 860 | 1200 | 510 | Natural gas/fuel oil furnaces |
| 2000 | 780 | 900 | 750 | Medium-frequency induction furnaces |
| 1000 | 640 | 773 | 380 | Laboratory/small-scale foundries |
Custom sizing is also available to meet specific operational requirements.
2. Performance Advantages
2.1 Thermal Properties
- High Thermal Conductivity: Rapid heat transfer (1.5–2.5 W/m·K) reduces melting time by 30%, leading to significant energy savings.
- Thermal Shock Resistance: Withstands rapid temperature fluctuations (up to 1,700°C) without cracking.
2.2 Mechanical Durability
- Hardness & Abrasion Resistance: Mohs hardness of 9.5, significantly outperforming traditional graphite crucibles.
- High Strength: Cold crushing strength (CCS) >80 MPa, making them ideal for high-pressure metallurgical processes.
2.3 Chemical Stability
- Acid/Alkali Resistance: Stable in pH 2–12 environments, resistant to molten metal corrosion (e.g., Cu, Al, Zn).
- Oxidation Resistance: A protective SiO₂ layer forms at high temperatures, minimizing graphite oxidation.
3. Industrial Applications
3.1 Metallurgy & Foundry
- Non-Ferrous Metal Melting: Widely used for copper, aluminum, gold, and silver refining due to high purity retention.
- Alloy Production: Ideal for tool steel and rare-earth alloy synthesis, ensuring minimal slag contamination.
3.2 Chemical Processing
- Corrosive Environments: Resists sulfuric acid, alkalis, and molten salts in chemical reactors.
3.3 Semiconductor Manufacturing
- High-Purity Melting: Suitable for silicon and gallium arsenide crystal growth, leveraging inert chemical properties.
4. Lifespan Optimization
4.1 Usage Practices
- Preheating: Gradually heat to 600°C before first use to prevent thermal shock.
- Loading Limits: Avoid exceeding 80% capacity to reduce mechanical stress.
4.2 Maintenance
- Cleaning: Remove slag residues after each use with non-abrasive tools.
- Storage: Keep in dry, vibration-free environments to prevent moisture absorption and cracks.
4.3 Lifespan Metrics
- Standard Use: 6–10 months under optimal conditions (vs. 2–3 months for graphite crucibles).
- High-Performance Models: Achieve 25+ cycles in alloy steel melting, reducing replacement costs by 40%.
Silicon carbide crucibles are transformative for industries requiring precision, efficiency, and longevity in high-temperature processes. By understanding their specifications, performance advantages, and proper maintenance practices, industries can maximize their operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
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