Pipeclay triangle

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An old clay triangle.

A pipeclay triangle (also called clay triangle or pipestem triangle) is a piece of laboratory item that is used to support a crucible being heated by a Bunsen burner or other heat/flame source.

General

A pipeclay triangle consists of three heat-resistant ceramic tubes, connected via metal wires, forming a triangle-like construction (hence its name).

Availability

Pipeclay triangles can be bought from lab suppliers or online.

DIY pipeclay triangle

A very simple pipeclay triangle can be made by inserting three thick metal wires through three ceramic tubes and twisting the wire ends using pliers. Alumina tubes, found in various machinery or electric machines, can be used, as they handle direct flame very well.

As a last resort, you can also make a simple triangle with "tails" at its tips from a steel of SS wire, then wrap the inner triangle with asbestos or ceramic fiber tape or sheets.

See also

References

Relevant Sciencemadness threads