Why the clay triangle is one of the best complements?. Laboratory materials are almost as varied as the tasks or processes that are performed there. It can even be said that they are a lot more since it exists of different materials, sizes for the same function. For the performance of a process or procedure is just as it is important to know the steps of the process itself. As well as knowing the materials and implements we need or that can improve its execution.
What is a clay triangle? 🔺‼
It is known as a clay triangle to a tool usually made of clay, the use of which is delimited as a support for containers round bottom on the lighter. Its triangular shape allows the crucibles to they hold up perfectly. And that in addition the flame makes direct contact with the crucible.
It receives this name since some pieces of clay attached to an iron ring in the form of a tripod, simulate or resemble a triangle.
Description of the clay triangle
Tubular pieces of clay or ceramics form a shape triangular, similar to an equilateral triangle. This is usually sustained by an iron ring or a kind of tripod. Which in turn are found fastened by wires. One of its most outstanding features is that due to its triangular shape, a hole remains right in the middle. Is this same this is what differentiates it from the well-known wire gauze. Since this feature allows the direct incidence of heat on the container that it is employed. In addition to providing adequate support to material with a bottom rounded, which tends to be unstable if wire gauze is employed.
What is the function of the clay triangle? 🌡🔥
The most well-known function of the clay triangle is the of holding crucibles which are subjected to heating over a lighter of the type Bunsen. However, it is also used as a support for other materials of round bottom. Always looking for the stability of the same while performing the necessary warm-up.
In addition to this we can mention a small list of other functions that it fulfills within the laboratory work. As are the following:
It works as a physical separation between the instrument to be heated and the lighter.
It allows the correct support of laboratory materials such as flasks and beakers.
Parts of the clay triangle
The clay triangle consists of:
3 sections of galvanized type wire welded into shape of triangle.
Each end of the wires is braided together to the tip of the continuous wire. Originating a kind of long stems which extend outward from each corner of the triangle. What is employed to enlarge or decrease the size of the central triangle according to the dimension of the material to be heated.
On each of the sides is arranged a ceramic cylinder or clay as a kind of sheath covering the wires. Which are capable of withstand high temperatures directly without fracturing or affecting its structure. This is because they are made of refractory materials.
It is found in many dimensions so it is necessary choosing the one that best suits the materials we are using in the time. Although relatively it is of a small size.
What is the use of the clay triangle?
Generally, this laboratory material is used in gold smelting processes in laboratory environment. As well as in-depth analysis of ash, simple drying and heating techniques.
Its use is really easy, it does not need training it is not a long preparation process, either. We will summarize it in a few simple steps when using with stand:
Take a universal bracket preferably and attach a well-fixed iron ring to it.Position the bunsen lighter just below the frame you have created with the stand.Finally place the clay triangle on the iron ring.Place the crucible in the center of the triangle.Turn on the lighter and voila we are ready to heat the substance inside the crucible.
If instead of a stand we will use a tripod, the steps are the following:
Position the bunsen burner the instead of work.On this place the tripod, centered on the burner.Add an iron hoop on the cusp of the tripod. Then the clay triangle.Finally the container with the substance to be heated.
Types of clay triangle 🔬🧫
The clay triangle is a material that basically it has no differentiation from each other but only its measurement and the materials with which it is made. Well, it should be noted that it is called a clay triangle or porcelain is due to its final coating. More not because of its base material, clarified this we can find the following types:
Nickel-based
Nickel is well known as a high-gloss metal with well-marked characteristics of being hard but quite malleable. In addition to possess a high resistance to high temperatures, which gives it great durability to the instrument in question.
With wire base
It is one of the most common on the market and as its name indica is made with wire usually galvanized with zinc. What le provides greater resistance to corrosion and high temperature.
With iron base
It is the material par excellence in instruments that are used in heating processes, since 1500 ºC is needed to be able to melt it. Be very resistant and quite economical so it is very common to find clay triangles with this material.
With nichrome base
This material results from the combination of chromium and nickel, this alloy is made to maximize the individual characteristics of both metals. Thus guaranteeing greater support and durability of the triangle with this composition.
Importance of the clay triangle
Although it goes unnoticed on many occasions, the function that complies within laboratories in any field. It is very important already which are needed in the many heating processes. And without this element materials such as flasks, crucibles or beakers could atrophy by be exposed directly to heat. Or in other cases not achieving results reliable due to the poor uniformity of heat in the vessel. This without undoubtedly, it transforms him into an infallible ally when it comes to carrying out all the processes of this kind.
Now that you know the 5 reasons why the clay triangle is the best ally of the lighter. Do not forget to visit our other publications so that you continue to know wonders in the world of laboratory materials. Remember that a good handling of the material guarantees the obtaining of better results in any of your practices.
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References
Wikipedia - Here
