Why Choose Us?
Reliable Product Quality
Xinkyo Company was founded in 2005 by professional materials researchers. Its founder studied at Peking University and is a leading manufacturer of high-temperature experimental equipment and new materials research laboratory equipment. This enables us to provide high-quality, low-cost high-temperature equipment for materials research and development laboratories.
Advanced Equipment
Main production equipment: CNC punching machines, CNC bending machines, CNC engraving machines, high-temperature oven CNC lathes, lying machines, gantry milling, machining centers, sheet metal, laser cutting machines, CNC punching machines, bending machines, self capacitive welding machines, argon arc welding machines, laser welding, sandblasting machines, automatic paint baking rooms.
Wide Range of Applications
The products are mainly used in ceramics, powder metallurgy, 3D printing, new material research and development, crystal materials, metal heat treatment, glass, negative electrode materials for new energy lithium batteries, magnetic materials, etc.
Wide Market
XinKyo Furnace's annual export sales revenue is more than 50 million, with North American markets (such as the United States, Canada, Mexico, etc.) accounting for 30% and European markets (such as France, Spain, Germany,etc) accounting for about 20%; 15% in Southeast Asia (Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, India, etc) and 10% in the Russian market; 10% in the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, ect ), 5% in the Australian market, and the remaining 10%.
What is Vacuum Tube Furnace?
A vacuum tube furnace is a type of hot wall vacuum furnace where the tube is heated from the outside by heating elements exposed to ambient air. It can operate under vacuum or in a controlled atmosphere. The maximum temperature that can be achieved in vacuum varies depending on the material and size of the tube. The ends of the work tube are adapted to vacuum flanges, and some vacuum tube furnaces require water cooling while others can work without it.
The 1200℃ open type wire blocking tube furnace adopts a double-layer air-cooled structure, and the equipment has passed CE certification. The furnace is formed by vacuum adsorption of high-purity alumina ceramic fibers.
SK2 series tube furnace for universities, research institutes, industrial and mining enterprises and other patterns and small batch production. Safe and reliable, simple operation, high precision temperature control, good insulation effect, temperature uniformity.
The SK2 series Rotary tube furnace is designed upon firing inorganic compound to obtain better consistency and design, especially suitable for the preparation of lithium-ion battery negative material conductive coating.
Slide-Rapid Cooling Tube Furnace
1200℃ Sliding-rapid cooling tube furnaces are mainly used in the field of rapid heating and cooling. The furnace can be moved automatically or manually according to process requirements, and the movement speed can be intelligently adjusted.
Multi-Temperature Zone Tube Furnace
SK2 series tube furnace for universities, research institutes, industrial and mining enterprises and other patterns and small batch production. Safe and reliable, simple operation, high precision temperature control, good insulation effect, temperature uniformity.
The SK2-1-12TPE3 series open vacuum tube furnace adopts an air-cooled structure. This tube furnace has a diameter of 150mm, a temperature range of 350mm, and a double ended stainless steel flange seal.
SK2-5-12TPVQT equipment is a small vertical quenching furnace, with a bottom quenching pool used for sample quenching. The temperature can reach up to 1100 degrees Celsius to cold water or oil, and the quenching pool remains in a vacuum state.
All SK2 series products are CE certified high-temperature tube furnaces. The heating element of the 1800℃ tube furnace uses 1900 type silicon molybdenum rods, and the standard configuration of the tubes is AI203 99% corundum tubes.
The SK2-4-14TPC3 products are all CE certified high-temperature tube furnaces. The heating element of the 1400 ℃ tube furnace adopts 1400 type silicon carbon rod, and the standard configuration of the tube is AI203 99% corundum tube.
Advantages of Vacuum Tube Furnace
Enhanced Product Quality
Minimized Oxidation and Decarburization: In the absence of air, materials processed in vacuum tube furnaces are less prone to oxidation and decarburization. This results in a cleaner, smoother surface finish, preserving the integrity and appearance of the product.
Consistency in Results: Vacuum tube furnace systems deliver uniform heating, which ensures consistent quality across batches. This is vital for industries where precision is non-negotiable.
Precise Temperature Control
Accurate Heat Application: The ability to precisely control temperature in vacuum tube furnaces means that heat is applied exactly where and how it's needed, ensuring optimal treatment of materials.
Customized Heat Profiles: Different materials require different heat treatment profiles. vacuum tube furnaces allow for such customization, catering to the unique properties of each material.
Uniform Heating and Cooling
Even Material Properties: Uniform heating and cooling prevent the development of stress and distortion in materials, ensuring their strength and durability.
Improved Material Performance: This uniformity translates to improved performance characteristics of the materials, which is essential in high-stress applications like aerospace or automotive parts.
Increased Process Efficiency
Faster Cycle Times: Vacuum tube furnaces can reach the desired temperatures more rapidly than conventional furnaces, leading to shorter overall processing times.
Energy Efficiency: These furnaces are generally more energy-efficient, reducing operational costs and benefiting the environment.
Environmentally Friendly Process
Reduced Emissions: With no need for combustion in a vacuum, these furnaces emit fewer pollutants, making them a greener option.
Lower Carbon Footprint: The overall process efficiency and reduced energy consumption contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
Versatility in Applications
Broad Material Compatibility: From metals to ceramics, vacuum tube furnace heat treatment is used to process a wide variety of materials, making these furnaces versatile tools in many industries.
Adaptable for Different Processes: Be it annealing, brazing, sintering or hardening, vacuum tube furnaces are adaptable to various heat treatment processes.
Enhanced Safety Features
Reduced Fire Risk: Operating in a vacuum means there's no oxygen to fuel fires, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
Controlled Atmosphere: The controlled environment inside a vacuum tube furnace improves quality and enhances operator safety.
Long-Term Cost Savings
Lower Maintenance Costs: Vacuum tube furnaces typically require less maintenance than traditional furnaces.
Extended Lifespan of Products: The high-quality treatment extends the lifespan of treated materials, offering long-term cost benefits to users.
Application of Vacuum Tube Furnace
Materials Processing
Sintering and densification of advanced ceramic, metal, and cermet materials.
Heat treatment of metals and alloys to improve properties like hardness, strength, and ductility.
Crystal growth and thin film deposition processes for semiconductor manufacturing.
Chemical Reactions and Synthesis
Vacuum-assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD) for depositing thin films.
Pyrolysis and thermal decomposition reactions under controlled low-pressure environments.
Solid-state reactions and phase transformations in materials science.
Thermal Analysis
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to study weight changes of materials under controlled atmospheres.
Differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) for investigating phase transitions and thermal properties.
Outgassing and Degassing
Removal of adsorbed gases, moisture, and volatile impurities from materials and components.
Preparation of ultra-high vacuum components and systems.
Brazing and Welding
Vacuum brazing of metals and alloys to create high-strength joints.
Vacuum-assisted welding processes to produce high-quality welds.
Components of Vacuum Tube Furnace
Heating element
The core part of the equipment is the heating element, the common ones are resistance heating wire and graphite heater. These elements are capable of generating high temperatures to bring materials to the required processing temperatures.
Furnace cavity
The heat treatment of materials takes place inside the furnace cavity. The furnace cavity is usually made of high temperature resistant materials such as graphite or metal.
Vacuum system
In order to process in an oxygen-free environment, the furnace is equipped with a vacuum system, including a vacuum pump and sealing equipment, to extract the gas in the furnace cavity and create a low-pressure environment.
Control System
The control system monitors and regulates the furnace's temperature, pressure, and other process parameters. Modern vacuum tube furnaces are often equipped with advanced automated control systems that can accurately manage the heating and cooling processes.
The working principle of the vacuum tube type experimental electric furnace is: the use of quartz or corundum tube as a sealed container, the choice of stainless steel sealing flange, so that the quartz or corundum tube to meet the conditions of sealing, at the same time can be very convenient to take the experimental materials. When using the vacuum tube type experimental furnace, simply put the experimental material into the quartz tube or corundum tube, seal the quartz tube or corundum tube through the stainless steel flange, through the vacuum pump or flange on the reserved air inlet, extract the quartz tube or corundum tube gas or pass into the specific atmosphere, in the quartz tube or corundum tube heating to meet the requirements of the experiment. Vacuum tube type experimental furnace in the atmosphere, it is recommended that the first pre-pumping vacuum, and then into the corresponding atmosphere, such as conditions allow, it is best to repeat several times, so that in the experiment, high temperature furnace tube atmosphere will be higher purity.
Vacuum Tube Furnace Maintenance Guide
Regular Cleaning of Your Tube Furnace
Regular cleaning is an essential part of vacuum tube furnace maintenance. Over time, deposits from high-temperature processes can accumulate on the walls and heating elements of the furnace, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage. Here are the basic steps to take when cleaning your tubular furnace.
Step 1: Start by allowing it to cool down completely. Then, using a soft brush or vacuum, remove any loose debris from the inside of the furnace. Be careful not to damage the heating elements or the insulation while cleaning.
Step 2: Mix a solution of water and a mild detergent and apply it to a clean cloth. Gently wipe down the interior of the furnace, focusing on areas with visible deposits. Be sure to avoid any electrical components or heating elements while cleaning.
Step 3: Rinse the cloth in clean water and wring it out before wiping down the furnace again. Repeat the process until all detergent residues are removed, and then use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the furnace one last time.
Tube Furnace Seal Inspection and Replacement
The seal on a vacuum tube furnace helps maintain the vacuum or controlled atmosphere inside the furnace. Over time, the seal can become damaged or worn, resulting in air leaks that can compromise the furnace's performance and accuracy.
Start by visually examining it for any visible signs of wear or damage.
Perform a pressure test to check for any air leaks.
If the seal is damaged or worn, it should be replaced immediately to avoid any further damage to the tube furnace.
Use corresponding replacement parts that match your tube furnace's original design.
It is essential to use the correct seal for your tubular furnace. Using the wrong seal can lead to air leaks or even cause the furnace to fail. When ordering a replacement seal, make sure to specify the correct dimensions and materials.
Tube Furnace Heating Element Inspection
The heating elements in a vacuum tube furnace are the components that provide the heat necessary for high-temperature processes. These elements are exposed to extreme temperatures, which can cause wear and tear over time. Proper heating element maintenance is critical to the overall performance and longevity of the furnace.
Check your lab tube furnace heating elements regularly for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks. If any damage is detected, the heating element should be replaced immediately. Regularly cleaning the heating elements is also important to remove any accumulated debris or residue that can reduce efficiency. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any loose debris, taking care not to damage the elements or the insulation.
It's important to note that any maintenance or repair work on the heating elements should only be carried out by a qualified technician. Attempting to repair or replace the elements yourself can be dangerous and can cause damage to the furnace. Regular heating element maintenance is essential to keep your vacuum tube furnace in good working condition.
Vacuum Tube Furnace Use of Precautions
The working environment requires no flammable and corrosive gases, prohibit the direct injection of various liquids and molten metal into the furnace chamber, and often keep the furnace chamber clean.
The use of the furnace chamber temperature shall not exceed the maximum furnace temperature, and shall not work under the rated temperature for a long time. During the experiment, the user shall not leave, always pay attention to the change of temperature, if abnormalities are found, the power shall be disconnected immediately and overhauled by professional maintenance personnel.
The furnace door should be closed and opened lightly to prevent damage to the machine. When putting the crucible clamp to take the sample, hold it gently to ensure safety and avoid damage to the furnace chamber.
Do not open the furnace door after the temperature exceeds 600 °C. Wait for the temperature in the furnace chamber to cool naturally before opening the door.
After the experiment is completed, the sample is removed from the heating and the power is switched off. When placing the sample in the furnace chamber, the door should be slightly opened and the sample should be taken after it has cooled down a little before it is carefully clamped to prevent burns.
After heating, the crucible should be transferred to a desiccator for cooling and placed on a buffer refractory material to prevent moisture absorption and frying, and then weighed.
When handling the vacuum tube furnace, pay attention to avoid serious resonance and place away from flammable and explosive, water...etc. It is strictly forbidden to lift the furnace door to avoid damage to the door.
Common Vacuum Tube Furnace Problems and Troubleshooting
Temperature Fluctuations
If your furnace is experiencing temperature fluctuations, check the thermocouple or temperature controller. It may need to be recalibrated or replaced.
Vacuum Leaks
Check the seals and gaskets if you notice a decrease in vacuum or pressure. Tighten any loose fittings, and replace any damaged or worn-out seals.
Overheating
Overheating is a common cause from damaged, worn or faulty heating elements. Adjust the temperature controller settings to prevent the tubular furnace from overheating. Inspect each element and replace accordingly.
Power Issues
Supply failure is a common cause of power issues. If the lab vacuum tube furnace won't turn on or is having power issues, check the power supply and wiring for any damage or loose connections. You may need to repair or replace any damaged components.
Gas Flow Issues
If your small vacuum tube furnace is using a gas supply, check the gas flow and pressure. Make sure the gas supply is turned on, and check the valves and regulators for any damage or leaks.
Design rise and fall temperature curve:
In addition to the needs of the experiment, the application range of the tubular furnace should also be considered. When the furnace tube is corundum furnace tube: The rate of temperature rise and drop in each temperature zone should not be too fast (≤ 5 ℃). The maximum operating temperature can be over 1200 ℃; When the furnace tube adopts quartz tube: heating rate ≤ 10 ℃, cooling rate ≤ 15 ℃. The maximum temperature shall not exceed 1100 ℃. When the silicon molybdenum rod is used as the heating element, it should not be used in the temperature range of 400 ℃ to 700 ℃ for a long time. Otherwise, the silicon molybdenum rod will be oxidized at low temperature, which will damage the element. The maximum use temperature shall not exceed the allowable maximum heating temperature of the vacuum tube furnace, and the use time at the maximum heating temperature shall not be too long, not more than 1 hour.
When the tubular vacuum furnace is used for the first time or idle for a long time, it shall be pre baked, i.e. baking for 1 hour at 120 ℃ or 2 hours at 300 ℃ to avoid furnace damage.
Push the sample boat into the middle of the rigid and tube furnace as close to the middle as possible.
Plug insulation plugs at both ends to reduce heat radiation loss.
Install the gas furnace flange and confirm that the gasket falls into the groove.
Operation steps of sintering gas:
Close the working gas circuit and connect the gas outlet end of the tubular furnace to the vacuum pump. Open the power supply of the vacuum pump, open the outlet valve, and empty the pipe body and the gas pipeline. When the vacuum gauge of tubular furnace reaches – 0.1 (when the pointer reaches the end), close the air inlet valve. When the vacuum gauge of the tubular furnace does not move for an hour, it is still – 0.1, indicating that the tubular furnace has good sealing performance, otherwise, it is necessary to find out the leakage point and correct it. Inert gas pressurization can also be used to test the air tightness, and the pressurization is generally not more than 0.05Mpa.
What Are the Vacuum Tube Furnace Systems?
Low vacuum system
The low vacuum system of the vacuum tube furnace is suitable for vacuum tube furnaces with a vacuum degree in the range of 2-1333Pa, such as pre-evacuated low vacuum pit furnaces, mostly oil-sealed rotary mechanical pumps.
Medium vacuum system
The medium vacuum system is suitable for vacuum tube furnaces with a vacuum degree in the range of 3×10-1.333Pa. The medium vacuum system is widely used in vacuum tube furnaces and usually consists of a two-stage vacuum pump unit. The primary pump is mostly a rotary mechanical pump or a sliding valve mechanical pump, and the main pump is a mechanical booster pump or an oil booster pump.
High vacuum system
The high vacuum system is suitable for vacuum tube furnaces with a vacuum degree of 6.6×10-1.333x10Pa, such as vacuum annealing furnaces and vacuum brazing furnaces. Usually composed of a three-stage vacuum pump unit, the main pump usually uses an oil diffusion pump, an ion pump, and the primary pump is mostly a rotating machinery or a sliding valve mechanical pump.
Our Certifications
Our Factory
Xinkyo Company was founded in 2005 by professional materials researchers. Its founder studied at Peking University and is a leading manufacturer of high-temperature experimental equipment and new materials research laboratory equipment. This enables us to provide high-quality, low-cost high-temperature equipment for materials research and development laboratories. Our products include high-temperature ovens, tube furnaces, vacuum furnaces, trolley furnaces, lifting furnaces, and other complete sets of equipment. Thanks to its excellent design, affordable prices, and customer service, Xinkyo is committed to becoming the world leader in materials science research for high-temperature equipment.
Ultimate FAQ Guide to Vacuum Tube Furnace
Hot Tags: vacuum tube furnace, China vacuum tube furnace manufacturers, suppliers
