Vacuum Furnace

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 Furnace?

A vacuum furnace is a type of furnace in which the product in the furnace is surrounded by a vacuum during processing. The absence of air or other gases prevents oxidation, heat loss from the product through convection, and removes a source of contamination. This enables the furnace to heat materials (typically metals and ceramics) to temperatures as high as 3,000 °C (5,432 °F) with select materials. Maximum furnace temperatures and vacuum levels depend on melting points and vapor pressures of heated materials. Vacuum furnaces are used to carry out processes such as annealing, brazing, sintering and heat treatment with high consistency and low contamination.

Vacuum Sintering Furnace
High vacuum sintering furnace is widely used in the heat treatment of metallic material or ceramic parts in low or high vacuum, especially used in the vacuum Sintering and Annealing of the...
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Sintering Annealing Synthesis Vacuum Furnace
High-vacuum tube furnaces operating at 1500–1700℃ hold unique and precise application value in both industrial and scientific research fields. They enable controlled-cost, precision modulation of...
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Vertical Vacuum Annealing Furnace
Vertical vacuum annealing furance
Different chamber size can be customized
PID controlled lab furnace
Bright annealing for cutting tool
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1350C Lab Vacuum Furnace
1.Molybdenum material heating element
2.The cleanest furnace
3.Working temperature 1350 degrees
4.PLC integrated control of air intake, exhaust, vacuum extraction, etc
5.High...
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Vacuum Quenching Furnace
Vacuum quenching furnace used in materials science, metal (nickel Titanium alloy, stainless steel, Carbon steel, tools steel, High speed steel, high alloy steel, Soft magnetic material) materials’...
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Vacuum Annealing Furnace
The horizontal vacuum annealing furnace is mainly used for bright annealing of tool steel, die steel, high-speed steel, ultra-high strength steel, magnetic materials, stainless steel, non-ferrous...
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Vacuum Tempering Furnace
The high vacuum tempering furnace is mainly used for vacuum quenching of tool steel, die steel, high-speed steel, ultra-high strength steel, titanium alloy and other materials, vacuum tempering...
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Vacuum Brazing Furnace
Horizontal high vacuum brazing furnace is mainly used for vacuum brazing of radiators, air conditioning evaporators, condensers, radar grid antennas, waveguides, non-ferrous metals, stainless...
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Vacuum Graphite Heating Furnace
Vacuum Graphite Heating Furnace are widely used in inorganic materials (such as ceramic seals, silicon carbide, zirconia, zinc oxide, alumina, etc.), and metal materials (such as cemented carbide)...
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Advantages of Vacuum Furnace

Enhanced Product Quality

Minimized Oxidation and Decarburization: In the absence of air, materials processed in vacuum 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 furnace improves quality and enhances operator safety.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Lower Maintenance Costs: Vacuum 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.

Types of Vacuum Furnace

Vacuum brazing furnaces
Vacuum brazing furnaces are mainly used for vacuum brazing of aluminum alloy heat exchangers and other aluminum products, brazing of stainless steel, titanium alloys, hard alloys, high-temperature alloys, non-ferrous metals, and vacuum tempering of high-speed steel, mold steel, bearing steel, stainless steel, etc., as well as aging and annealing treatments of non-ferrous metals, and vacuum brazing of stainless steel heat exchangers, engine oil coolers, and stainless steel thermos cups.

Vacuum gas quenching furnaces
Vacuum gas quenching furnaces are primarily used for the high-pressure gas quenching of materials such as high-speed steel, tool steel, mold steel, and alloy structural steel. They can also be used for high-temperature brazing and solid solution of stainless steel materials; sintering and aging treatments of powder materials etc. It also has a quick cooling function during annealing and solid solution.

Vacuum sintering furnaces
Vacuum sintering furnaces are used under a hydrogen gas protection status after vacuum pumping, using the principle of medium frequency induction heating, causing the tungsten crucible in the coil to generate high temperatures, which is transmitted to the work by thermal radiation conduction, suitable for research and military units for sintering powder forming of refractory alloys such as tungsten, molybdenum, and their alloys. It is divided into horizontal vacuum sintering furnaces and vertical vacuum sintering furnaces.

Vacuum annealing furnace
The vacuum annealing furnace is primarily utilized for deep drawing of stainless steel components such as plumbing fixtures, ensuring no oxidation. Notably, the vacuum annealing furnace provides high productivity and a bright, non-oxidized surface of the treated products. It is widely applied in fields including stainless steel bearings, cutting tools, self-tapping and self-drilling screws, and stainless steel wire coils.

Vacuum tempering furnace
The vacuum tempering furnace is generally suitable for parts that require a bright and non-oxidized surface after tempering. It can be applied for high-temperature tempering of mold steel, high-temperature alloys, elastic alloys, copper alloys, titanium alloys, stress relieving and softening annealing of copper and copper alloys, while also offering quick cooling functionality.

Vacuum oil quenching furnace
The vacuum oil quenching furnace is suitable for the vacuum heat treatment of mold steel, spring steel, stainless steel, bearing steel, high-temperature alloy steel, and can also perform annealing. Its main advantages include a wide range of applicable materials, strong hardenability, low cost, and reusable quenching oil. However, it has the drawback of relatively larger deformation, requiring subsequent cleaning of the workpiece.

Vacuum carburizing furnace
The vacuum carburizing furnace can flexibly implement various heat treatment processes such as vacuum carburizing, vacuum carbonitriding, vacuum carburizing plus oil quenching, vacuum carburizing plus gas quenching, and other functions of the vacuum furnace. It can be used to perform relevant heat treatments on various materials and parts in the industrial field.

Application of Vacuum Furnace

Brazing
Vacuum furnaces are commonly used for brazing processes, which involve joining two or more metal components using a filler material.

Sintering
Vacuum furnaces can be used for sintering, which is the process of compacting and forming solid materials using heat and pressure.

Annealing
Vacuum furnaces are often used for annealing processes, which involve heating a material to a specific temperature and then cooling it slowly to improve its mechanical properties.

Degassing
Vacuum furnaces can be used for degassing processes, which involve removing gases from a material to improve its purity and quality.

Drying
Vacuum furnaces are used for drying processes, which involve removing moisture or other volatile substances from a material.

Tempering
Vacuum furnaces can be used for tempering processes, which involve heating a material to a specific temperature and then cooling it quickly to increase its toughness.

Soldering
Vacuum furnaces are commonly used for soldering processes, which involve joining two or more metal components using a lower melting point filler material.

Quenching
Vacuum furnaces can be used for quenching processes, which involve rapidly cooling a material to increase its hardness.

Hardening
Vacuum furnaces are often used for hardening processes, which involve heating a material to a specific temperature and then cooling it quickly to increase its hardness.

Metal injection molding (MIM) and ceramic injection molding (CIM)
Vacuum furnaces can be used for MIM and CIM processes, which involve injecting a metal or ceramic material into a mold to create complex shapes.

Metallization, silicification, and carbonization
Vacuum furnaces can be used for these industrial processes, which involve coating or transforming a material with metals, silicon, or carbon.

Components of Vacuum Furnace

01/

Vacuum furnace chamber
The vacuum furnace chamber is mainly divided into a stainless steel chamber, ceramic fiber chamber, molybdenum foil chamber, and graphite chamber. The maximum temperature ranges from 750°C to 2200°C.

02/

Vacuum System
The vacuum system consists of vacuum valves, mechanical pumps, diffusion pumps and Roots pumps according to the required vacuum level. The maximum vacuum level is generally 7×10-3 Pa.

03/

Vacuum furnace heating elements
Vacuum furnace heating elements are mainly divided into resistance wire, silicon carbon rod, molybdenum wire and rod, silicon molybdenum rod, graphite, induction coil, etc. The maximum temperature ranges from 750℃ to 2200℃.

04/

Temperature control system
The temperature control system of the vacuum furnace is mainly composed of thermocouples (temperature measurement) and temperature controllers (temperature control). It is mainly divided into PID programmable control, touch screen control, and PLC fully automatic control.

05/

Water cooling system
According to the size of the furnace chamber, a matching water cooling system is required to ensure that the vacuum furnace can work properly.

06/

Sealed furnace shell
The furnace shell casing must be well sealed to ensure that the designed vacuum level can be achieved.

Steps to the Vacuum Furnace Process

Load the Furnace
The vacuum furnace heat treatment process begins by placing the parts, tools or components into the chamber. Depending on furnace size, this can be accomplished using a rolling rack or tray to load parts. For smaller vacuum furnaces, simply open the chamber and place parts inside.

Create a Vacuum Inside the Chamber
After closing and sealing the chamber, the next step in vacuum furnace processing is to create a vacuum inside the chamber. Initialize the pump to remove all of the oxygen inside the vacuum furnace and maintain an airtight seal.

Heat Your Parts
Use the temperature controls to heat your parts. Most vacuum furnace systems have fine controls that manage the temperature to a precise degree. The speed at which the vacuum furnace reaches the desired temperature can also be managed.

Cooling and Finishing
The manner in which you cool parts following a vacuum furnace heat treatment will differ depending on the material and the application. One of the more common ways to cool components in vacuum furnace processing is to cycle inert gases such as argon into the heating chamber. Because inert gases do not readily undergo chemical reactions, they are an ideal choice as a cooling system for your vacuum furnace.

Why Choose Graphite for Your Vacuum Furnace?

Graphite Materials provide High Compressive Strength
Compressive Strength is the capacity of a material to withstand loads tending to reduce its size. Graphite has high compressive strength. Workpieces made of graphite, therefore, are generally lighter than steel racks. Consequently, they facilitate processes and working cycles and even contribute to the prevention of accidents.

Graphite Increases Furnace Productivity
Graphite is suitable for use in most vacuum furnaces. With the extremely high temperatures in vacuum furnaces, a material that does not react with process gasses such as nitrogen and argon is useful. Graphite does not react with nitrogen or argon and is thus an ideal material for use in these vacuum furnaces.

Graphite Lengthens Service Life
Graphite provides advantages by enabling shorter cycle times in induction furnaces and vacuum furnaces. Graphite is also lighter than steel and does not distort, even in extreme heat conditions.

Graphite is Energy Efficient
Although graphite has higher heat absorbing capacity than metal, it provides better energy balance than all comparable materials. For high-temperature applications, this means reduced heating and cooling times as well as less energy demand. Induction furnaces, which due to other qualities are already more energy efficient than blast furnaces, are even more efficient when graphite is used in their construction.

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.
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.
It's important to note that the cleaning frequency will depend on the usage and the specific requirements of the furnace. Some high-temperature vacuum tube furnaces may need to be cleaned after every use, while others may require cleaning only once a month. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended cleaning frequency. In addition to regular cleaning, it's important to have a maintenance schedule in place to ensure that the furnace is inspected and serviced regularly. By following a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule, you can help prolong the lifespan of your furnace and ensure that it continues to operate efficiently.

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.
The replacement process will vary depending on the type of seal used in your small tube furnace, so it's important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for guidance. Regular seal inspection and replacement should be part of your vacuum tube furnace maintenance schedule. By keeping the seal in good condition, you can help ensure that your furnace operates efficiently and accurately, producing consistent results.

Common Tube Furnace Problems and Troubleshooting

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 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.

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.

Gas Flow Issues

If your small 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.

Choosing the Right Vacuum Furnace

Assess Your Specific Vacuum Heat Treating Needs
Understand the types of materials you'll be processing and their specific vacuum heat treating needs. Different materials may require different temperature ranges and atmospheres. Also, consider the desired properties of your finished product, such as hardness, durability or corrosion resistance, to determine the furnace specifications.

Understand the Different Types of Vacuum Furnace Systems
Vacuum furnace systems come in various types, each serving a different purpose and with its own set of advantages. Match the type of furnace to your specific applications, whether it's for annealing, brazing, sintering or another process.

Consider Size and Capacity
Evaluate the available space in your facility to ensure the furnace fits comfortably with adequate room for operation and maintenance. Estimate your processing volume to choose a furnace size that can handle your workload efficiently without underutilization or overloading.

Evaluate Temperature and Vacuum Levels
Ensure the furnace can reach and accurately maintain the required temperature ranges. The level of vacuum (measured in torr) is crucial, especially for processes requiring ultra-high vacuums. Ensure the furnace meets your specific vacuum requirements.

Assess Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Look for energy-efficient models to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Consider the long-term costs of operating and maintaining the furnace, including spare parts and service availability.

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 Furnace

Q: What is a vacuum furnace?

A: A vacuum furnace enables heat treatment in vacuum. A distinction is made between cold and hot wall vacuum furnaces. Cold wall vacuum furnaces operate with a water-cooled vacuum recipient, which is kept cold during the entire heat treatment process. The heating elements are located inside this recipient. Hot wall vacuum furnaces on the other hand operate with heating elements located outside the vacuum-recipient (e.G., a ceramic or quartz tube) while the recipient is heated itself.

Q: Why is a vacuum furnace required for high temperatures?

A: The maximum temperature of regular resistance-type heating elements in an air/oxidising environment is 1800°c. For temperatures above, a vacuum furnace must be used, and a non-oxidizing atmosphere must be applied. Vacuum furnaces allow temperatures up to 3000°c with resistance-type heating elements.

Q: Which applications require a vacuum furnace?

A: Many applications require vacuum heat treatment, for example vacuum soldering and brazing, vacuum annealing, sintering etc. In general, a vacuum furnace is required for any type of heat treatment in a defined, mostly non-oxidising, atmosphere. Additionally, it can also make sense to use a vacuum furnace for heat treatment with a defined oxygen concentration which is different from the air composition (e.G., 100% pure o2).

Q: What type of atmosphere is possible in a vacuum furnace?

A: Of course, vacuum itself is a possible atmosphere for vacuum furnaces. Depending on the application, the vacuum level can be rough, fine, high, or even ultra-high vacuum. Additionally, as a vacuum furnace allows complete removal of the air atmosphere, it is also possible to work with various gases or mixtures, such as argon, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, helium etc.

Q: What types of heating elements are used in a vacuum furnace?

A: Typically, graphite, molybdenum or tungsten heating elements are used in a (cold wall) vacuum furnace. Those elements possess low pressures even at high temperatures. In vacuum it is possible to achieve 2200°c, 1600°c and 2200°c respectively.

Q: How does a vacuum furnace work?

A: A vacuum furnace is a type of furnace that heats materials – typically metals or ceramics – in a vacuum environment. This absence of air or other gasses prevents unwanted chemical reactions during vacuum furnace heat treatment, leading to higher-quality outcomes. Vacuum furnaces remove the air inside the chamber and heat the material to a specific temperature, allowing for precise control and uniform heating.

Q: What is the temperature of a vacuum furnace?

A: The temperature range of a vacuum furnace varies depending on its design and purpose. SentroTech vacuum furnace systems, for example, operate at temperatures up to 1,600°C (2,912°F). This allows for the treatment of a variety of materials, from metals to ceramics, with the exact temperature being precisely controlled to suit the specific requirements of each heat treatment process, such as hardening, sintering or annealing. The ability to reach and maintain such high temperatures in a controlled environment is a key feature that makes vacuum furnace heat treatment ideal for advanced material processing applications.

Q: How often should I clean my vacuum tube furnace?

A: It's recommended to clean your vacuum tube furnace after each use to remove any residue or particles that may have accumulated on the heating elements or chamber. Additionally, perform a thorough cleaning at least once a month to ensure optimal performance.

Q: Can I perform maintenance on my tube furnace or do I need to hire a professional?

A: It's generally recommended to hire a qualified technician to perform maintenance on your vacuum tube furnace. However, if you have experience and knowledge of vacuum furnace systems and their components, you may be able to perform some basic maintenance tasks yourself. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines when performing maintenance or repairs on your tubular furnace.

Q: What do you need for a vacuum furnace?

A: All vacuum furnaces must be connected to supplies of electricity, water (for cooling), quench gas and compressed air.

Q: What are the advantages of a vacuum furnace?

A: Uniform high temperatures. Precise temperature control. Low contamination from carbon, oxygen, and other gasses. Quick quenching or cooling of the product.

Q: What is the maximum temperature in a vacuum furnace?

A: 3000°C (5432 °F) maximum temperature in vacuum with metallic hot zone, 2200°C (4000 °F) with graphite hot zone.

Q: Is it safe to vacuum a furnace?

A: A thorough vacuuming could remove a lot of the unwanted accumulations inside the furnace. Adhere to smart steps for safety before starting. Shutting off both the gas flow and electrical power to the furnace is among the recommended safety steps.

Q: What is a hot zone in a vacuum furnace?

A: The “Hot Zone,” or furnace internal, on vacuum furnaces has evolved throughout the years, from an all-metal shielded design to insulated, employing various forms of thermal insulation. Both types of hot zones — the all-metal and the insulated – have their acceptable use based on final vacuum and thermal requirements.

Q: What is the working principle of vacuum furnace?

A: The absence of air or other gases prevents oxidation, heat loss from the product through convection, and removes a source of contamination. This enables the furnace to heat materials (typically metals and ceramics) to temperatures as high as 3,000 °C (5,432 °F) with select materials.

Q: What is the difference between a vacuum furnace and an atmospheric furnace?

A: Unlike conventional heat treatment methods that use atmospheric air, vacuum furnaces ensure a clean and contamination-free environment during the heat treatment process. In a vacuum furnace, the air is removed from the heating chamber, creating a vacuum or low-pressure environment.

Q: What is the structure of a vacuum furnace?

A: The structure of the vacuum furnace is generally composed of the main engine, the furnace, the electric heating device, the sealed furnace shell, the vacuum system, the power supply system, the temperature control system and the transportation vehicle outside the furnace.

Q: What is the history of the vacuum furnace?

A: Vacuum furnaces began to be used in the 1930s for annealing and melting titanium sponge materials. Early vacuum furnaces were hot wall vacuum furnaces, not cold wall vacuum furnaces like we use today.

As one of the leading vacuum furnace manufacturers and suppliers in China, we warmly welcome you to buy high-grade vacuum furnace for sale here from our factory. All our products are with high quality and competitive price.