KSL-1500X-VT Vertical Hybrid Furnace with 25 mm Alumina Tube for SOFC Coin Cell Testing, Up to 1500°C
The KSL-1500X-VT is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) research and other high-temperature laboratory processes. It integrates three furnace functions—muffle furnace, vertical tube furnace, and SOFC coin cell testing—into a compact unit capable of reaching temperatures up to 1500°C. This multifunctionality supports diverse experimental workflows, including controlled atmosphere processing and precise thermal cycling of fuel cell samples.
At the core is a 120x120x120 mm heating chamber lined with silicon carbide heating elements, providing uniform temperature distribution within a 50x50x50 mm zone with ±5% variation. The furnace includes two 1-inch ports at the top and bottom to accommodate a 760 mm long alumina tube (25 mm outer diameter, 19 mm inner diameter) made from 99.5% high-purity Al2O3 ceramic. This tube enables sample processing in controlled atmospheres or direct testing of SOFC coin cells. Fibrous ceramic tube blocks are supplied to minimize heat radiation loss and must be properly positioned before heating.
Key Features
- Maximum operating temperature of 1500°C with a heating rate up to 10°C/min.
- 30-segment programmable temperature controller with S-type thermocouple for ±1°C accuracy.
- Vacuum sealing flanges equipped with double silicone high-temperature O-rings, stainless steel needle valves, and a dial vacuum gauge for immediate vacuum operation.
- Vacuum capability limited by external pumps: mechanical pumps achieve 50 mTorr, molecular pumps reach 10⁻⁵ Torr (vacuum pumps sold separately).
- Optional coin-type fuel cell testing fixture includes alumina and quartz tubes, flanges with gas inlets/outlets, spring load, platinum wire and mesh, and high-temperature adhesive.
- DB9 communication port for PC interface and optional software control.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Heating Chamber Dimensions | 120 x 120 x 120 mm |
| Heating Elements | Silicon Carbide (SiC) |
| Maximum Temperature | 1500°C |
| Heating Rate | Up to 10°C/min |
| Uniform Temperature Zone | 50 x 50 x 50 mm ±5% |
| Temperature Controller | 30-segment programmable, S-type thermocouple |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±1°C |
| Power Supply | Single Phase, 220V AC, 50/60 Hz, Max 2.5 kW |
| Processing Tube Material | 99.5% High Purity Alumina (Al2O3) |
| Processing Tube Dimensions | ID 19 mm, OD 25 mm, Length 760 mm |
| Vacuum Sealing | Double silicone high-temp O-ring, SS needle valves, dial vacuum gauge |
| Vacuum Level Capability | 50 mTorr (mechanical pump), 10⁻⁵ Torr (molecular pump) |
| Communication Interface | DB9 port for optional PC control |
Typical Applications
This furnace is ideal for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) coin cell testing, high-temperature material synthesis, sintering, and controlled atmosphere experiments requiring precise thermal profiles. Its vertical tube configuration supports gas flow and vacuum conditions essential for fuel cell research and other advanced ceramic processing.
Configuration & Operating Notes
The furnace includes fibrous ceramic tube blocks to reduce heat radiation; these must be fully inserted before operation. Vacuum pumps are not included and must be sourced separately to achieve desired vacuum levels. An optional coin-type fuel cell testing fixture is available, providing all necessary components for immediate SOFC sample evaluation. Users should ensure proper installation of vacuum seals and observe safety protocols when operating at high temperatures and under vacuum.
