Compare Silicon Carbide Crucible vs Graphite Crucible

In the field of metal melting manufacturing, silicon carbide crucible and graphite crucible are widely used because of their excellent flexibility and durability. However, the two types of crucible show significant differences in many aspects, this article will in-depth explore the ATCERA brand silicon carbide crucible and graphite crucible performance comparison, to help users make the best choice according to actual needs.

Silicon Carbide Crucible vs Graphite Crucible: High Temperature Resistance

Silicon carbide crucible and graphite crucible are suitable for high temperature processing operations, but their high temperature resistance is different. The graphite crucible is particularly outstanding in terms of high temperature resistance, which can withstand a high temperature of about 3000°C, and almost no thermal expansion occurs at this temperature, so it has very high cracking resistance. In contrast, the maximum temperature resistance of silicon carbide crucible is usually between 1600°C and 1800°C, although slightly worse than graphite, but still far more than other materials. In addition, the silicon carbide crucible performs well in resistance to thermal shock, with good durability and crack resistance.

Chemical Compatibility of Silicon Carbide and Graphite Crucibles

In the process of manufacturing molten materials, it is often necessary to control the environment to avoid oxidation risks. Because of its excellent thermal stability, the silicon carbide crucible performs well in the acid-base environment, and has a high immunity to chemical attack even when exposed to air at high temperatures. The graphite crucible is easier to burn, especially in open air and high heat environments. However, in the environment of inert gases and reducing elements, graphite crucible can maintain chemical stability. In order to enhance the oxidation resistance of graphite crucible, the use of protective coating can be considered.

Material Composition: Silicon Carbide Crucible vs Graphite Crucible

The unique properties of silicon carbide crucible and graphite crucible are derived from their different material compositions. Silicon carbide crucible is mainly composed of silicon and carbon, giving it excellent thermal conductivity and hardness. Some silicon carbide crucible also add additives such as fillers and adhesives to enhance some of its characteristics, such as silicon carbide crucible containing silicon nitride adhesive has higher strength and oxidation resistance. The graphite crucible has high temperature resistance and hardness due to the concentration of high purity carbon in its structure, while adding adhesives such as clay to improve its performance.

Mechanical Strength Comparison: Silicon Carbide Crucible and Graphite Crucible

The mechanical strength of the crucible can be evaluated by analyzing characteristics such as hardness, elastic modulus and wear resistance. Silicon carbide crucibles are relatively hard and have high thermal shock resistance, so there is a low risk of deformation and fracture when subjected to heavy loads and rapid temperature changes. In contrast, the brittleness of graphite crucible is higher, relatively weak, and more prone to wear due to oxidation. Nevertheless, graphite crucible still has excellent thermal stability.

Cost Analysis: Silicon Carbide Crucible and Graphite Crucible

Crucible prices vary depending on size, customization and quality. Silicon carbide crucible due to the relative scarcity of materials, the price is relatively high, but because of its excellent oxidation and fatigue resistance, longer service life, the price range is usually 20 to more than 500 US dollars. Graphite crucibles are widely available because of pure graphite, and the price is relatively low, usually between $10 and $500.

Electrical Conductivity: Silicon Carbide Crucible vs Graphite Crucible

Some applications such as electrolysis and induction heating require the crucible to conduct current. The structure of graphite allows electrons to move, so it has high electrical conductivity, usually between 700 and 2000 S/m, suitable for electrical furnaces and induction heating. In contrast, silicon carbide crucibles have a low conductivity of 0.1 to 10 S/m, but perform well in resistance heating applications such as kilns and non-electrical melting operations.

Thermal Shock Resistance: Silicon Carbide Crucible and Graphite Crucible

Graphite and silicon carbide crucibles dominate casting applications where rapid temperature changes are required. Graphite crucible has low thermal expansion, high temperature resistance and high thermal conductivity, so it has excellent thermal shock resistance. Although the silicon carbide crucible also showed good thermal shock resistance, it was slightly worse than graphite. The resistance of silicon carbide to rapid heating and cooling reflects its moderate thermal expansion and inherent mechanical strength, but more attention should be paid to preventing cracking when used.

Common Uses of Silicon Carbide Crucible and Graphite Crucible

The advantages and disadvantages of silicon carbide crucible and graphite crucible determine their application fields. Because of its excellent heat resistance, graphite crucible is the ideal choice for metal casting and high temperature furnace, but also widely used in high temperature laboratory testing. The silicon carbide crucible is suitable for the treatment of chemical materials due to its chemical inertia and oxidation resistance, and is highly respected in foundries, especially when casting metals such as aluminum, iron and copper.

In summary, ATCERA silicon carbide crucible in high temperature resistance, chemical compatibility, material composition, mechanical strength, cost, electrical conductivity, thermal shock resistance and application fields have their own characteristics. Users should choose the most suitable type of crucible according to the specific needs and use scenarios, considering the performance. Whether it is silicon carbide crucible or graphite crucible, they play an irreplaceable role in their respective application fields, and jointly promote the development of material processing technology.

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