OTF-1500X-VGB 1500°C Vertical Atmosphere-Controlled Quenching Furnace with Integrated Glovebox and Electromagnetic Sample Release
The OTF-1500X-VGB is engineered for advanced materials research requiring strict atmosphere control during high-temperature heat treatment and quenching. It enables vertical loading of samples directly from an integrated glovebox into a high-temperature furnace tube, minimizing exposure to oxygen and moisture. This setup is ideal for studying phase transitions and microstructural changes in sensitive materials.
The glovebox environment is maintained with an integrated gas purification system that reduces moisture and oxygen levels to below 1 ppm. Samples are loaded vertically through a vacuum-tight bulkhead flange connecting the glovebox and furnace tube. An electromagnetic release mechanism suspends the sample in the hot zone for heat treatment and then releases it into a sealed stainless steel quenching chamber filled with oil or other quenching media, ensuring rapid cooling without atmospheric contamination.
Key Features
- Vertical furnace tube with airtight bulkhead flange for direct sample transfer from glovebox.
- Integrated glovebox with stainless steel construction and gas purification system achieving <1 ppm O2 and H2O.
- Electromagnetic auto-drop mechanism for precise sample release into quenching chamber.
- Stainless steel 304 quenching chamber with airtight seal and water-cooled flanges to protect Viton gaskets.
- Maximum operating temperature of 1500°C (up to 30 minutes) with continuous operation below 1400°C.
- Heating elements: four silicon carbide rods rated for 1500°C.
- Programmable temperature controller with 30 segments, PID auto-tune, and ±1°C accuracy.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Temperature | 1500°C (max 30 minutes), continuous <1400°C |
| Heating Rate | ≤ 10°C/min |
| Heating Elements | 4 × Silicon Carbide rods rated for 1500°C |
| Processing Tube | Mullite tube (USA made), OD 50 mm × ID 42 mm × Length 650 mm |
| Heating Zone Length | 152 mm (6″) |
| Constant Temperature Zone | 60 mm ± 2°C |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±1.0°C |
| Power Supply | AC 208-240V, Single Phase, 50/60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 4 kW (furnace), 1.5 kW (glovebox) |
| Glovebox Dimensions | 1200 mm L × 740 mm W × 900 mm H, stainless steel 304 |
| Atmosphere Control | Integrated gas purification system reducing O2 and H2O to <1 ppm |
| Vacuum Capability | 10^-2 torr (mechanical pump), 10^-5 torr (with turbopump, optional) |
| Sample Release Mechanism | Electromagnetic auto-drop with water-cooled flanges |
| Quenching Media | Oil recommended for vacuum quenching (e.g., diffusion pump fluid) |
Typical Applications
This furnace system is suited for research on phase transitions, microstructure evolution, and heat treatment of oxygen- and moisture-sensitive materials. It is particularly useful in materials science, metallurgy, and battery research where controlled atmosphere and rapid quenching are critical.
Configuration & Operating Notes
The system includes water-cooled jackets on both the top electromagnetic flange and bottom gate valve to protect sealing gaskets during high-temperature operation. The bottom gate valve electrically isolates the heating chamber from the quenching chamber and opens to release samples during quenching. Vacuum pumps and PC control software are optional accessories. The software supports temperature profile programming and remote operation but is compatible only with specific temperature controllers. Proper calibration of temperature sensors is recommended before use to ensure accuracy.
