Bell jar
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A bell jar or vacuum bell jar is a glass jar, similar in shape to a bell, and can be manufactured from a variety of materials (ranging from glass to different types of metals or transparent plastic). Bell jars are often used in laboratories to form and contain a vacuum; they may also serve as display cases or transparent dust covers. It is a common science apparatus used in experiments.
General
The bell jar is placed on a base which is vented to a hose fitting, that can be connected via a hose to a vacuum pump. A vacuum is formed by pumping the air out of the bell jar.
The lower edge of a vacuum bell jar forms a flange of heavy glass, ground smooth on the bottom for better contact. The base of the jar is equally heavy and flattened. A smear of vacuum grease is usually applied between them. As the vacuum forms inside, it creates a considerable compression force, so there is no need to clamp the seal. For this reason, a bell jar cannot be used to contain pressures above atmospheric, only below.
Availability
Bell jars can be bought online or from various suppliers.
