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A portable heating mantle for laboratory can be homemade easily using materials available at hand. However, it is important that the heating mantle to be used in the laboratory is prepared using materials that will not catch fire and hurt the user, and also materials that can conduct heat effectively. Some of the common types of heating mantles include:
Fiberglass heating mantles
A fiberglass heating mantle is manufactured from fiberglass laminate and in most cases, is available with a heating element that is constructed with a steel core. A fiberglass heating mantle is very flexible and one of the most lightweight heating mantles available on the market. A fiberglass heating mantle has a high heat and is resistant to chemical exposure, and in turn has a high level of durability. It provides a uniform heat to glassware used in the laboratory, this helps eliminate hot spots and breakage of the glassware.
Stainless steel heating mantles
A stainless steel heating mantle has stainless steel as the outer shell and helps provide durability as well as resistance to rust and chemical. Because of this, it makes the stainless steel heating mantle very easy to clean and poses less risk of corroding and damaging the apparatus in the laboratory. This heating mantle provides uniform heat with a high level of efficiency. The stainless steel heating mantle is structurally stronger so it will not be damaged easily unlike other heating mantles. Furthermore, the stainless steel heating mantle has very high thermal conductivity which means it heats up quickly and loses less heat during operation.
CLP heating mantles
CLP heating mantles are used to heat reaction vessels and feature an adjustable Velcro flap for easy insertion or removal of vessels. It consists of a blanket-like structure which is made from an outer layer of soft fabric lining the inside with a uniformly distributed heating element. The heating mantle provides consistent and uniform heating to the vessel which is ideal for any reaction to taking place. It has an ergonomic design and is lightweight and flexible.
Immersion heating mantles
An immersion heating mantle is suitable for immersible and non-immersion liquids and is effective for heat transfer.
Here are some of the considerations when purchasing laboratory heaters.
Laboratory requirements
This is the first consideration to take into account. The purpose and application of the heating mantle should be evaluated. What is known as a heating mantle is "different from an ordinary kettle". Heating mantles used in laboratories have been designed and manufactured with unique characteristics that enable them to perform specific functions in the laboratory. These include things like uniform distribution of heat, very high temperature range(this was possible due to special materials employed in the manufacture of heating mantles), and a high degree of flexibility, among others. They are used in chemistry experiments where flasks are required to be heated evenly. If a heating mantle would be used to contain liquids, then one should opt for a heating mantle with a lid or covering to contain those liquids and close the system.
Temperature control and uniformity
Uniform and accurate temperature control in heating is one of the key features of heating mantles. This can also be referred to as temperature stability. Heating mantles that feature sensitive temperature regulation should be selected as not only will they help in achieving the necessary temperature, but also in time minimization. The temperature range should also be considered and should be sufficient for the experiments that will be conducted in the laboratory. An even distribution of temperature across the mantle is very important to prevent hotspots or cold zones. This can affect the glassware adversely by causing either cracking or breaking.
Lab glassware compatibility
Be sure to observe which size and shape of lab glassware the heating mantle is compatible with. Heating mantles come in different configurations, which include single and multiple heating mantles to hold different glassware, which includes round-bottom flasks, evaporators, and reaction vessels. For the heating mantle to function efficiently, the heating mantle must match the glassware to achieve optimal heat transfer.
Safety features
Heating mantles are not your simple home electric heaters. These are very powerful gadgets used for serious scientific experiments and come with very important safety precautions. Many basins of heating mantle possess a cut-off feature that prevents overheating of the apparatus. Furthermore, other models are manufactured with an emergency shutdown feature to be activated in the event of an emergency. Also, the heating mantle should be constructed of materials that do not catch fire when in contact with chemicals.
Temperature control and uniformity
Uniform and accurate temperature control in heating is one of the key features of heating mantles. This can also be referred to as temperature stability. Heating mantles that feature sensitive temperature regulation should be selected as not only will they help in achieving the necessary temperature, but also in time minimization. The temperature range should also be considered and should be sufficient for the experiments that will be conducted in the laboratory. An even distribution of temperature across the mantle is very important to prevent hotspots or cold zones. This can affect the glassware adversely by causing either cracking or breaking.
Prevention
Accidental spills are always impossible to eliminate entirely, but with precautions, they can be minimized. Ensure that ample space is given when arranging apparatus and that equipment is securely positioned. The spilled material can either be of the hindmost apparatus or of the inside contents, and any spill will always affect the temperature. Fixing the wear and tear of the heating mantle will additionally influence its heating ability. Water or any liquid should be kept away from the heating mantle. Water should also not be allowed to come into contact with any chemicals or glassware in the laboratory because this will result in a serious reaction.
Proper handling
One of the key factors for the successful maintenance of electrical equipment is in its proper handling. Avoid pulling the plugs or traction by any means to unplug the heating mantle. Unplug or switch off heating mantle before touching.
Prevention
Accidental spills are always impossible to eliminate entirely, but with precautions, they can be minimized. Ensure that ample space is given when arranging apparatus and that equipment is securely positioned. The spilled material can either be of the hindmost apparatus or of the inside contents, and any spill will always affect the temperature. Fixing the wear and tear of the heating mantle will additionally influence its heating ability. Water or any liquid should be kept away when working on the heating mantle for laboratory purposes. Water should also not be allowed to come into contact with any chemicals because this will result in a serious reaction.
Spills and leaks
Spills and leaks are the major problem affecting most laboratories. Many laboratories, especially those working with chemicals, experience issues with spills. Spills, as mentioned earlier, can be very detrimental, not only because they affect the work at hand but also because they can damage lab equipment. Such damage can be caused by chemical reaction upon wetting the electrical components of the heating mantle or even glassware.
The heating mantle works by generating heat through an electrical resistance wire embedded within the fabric of the mantle. Once switched on, electrical current passes through the resistance wire. The wire heats up, and as it does, heat is transferred to the glassware through conduction. The mantle surrounds the glassware to provide even and uniform heating, eliminating hot spots commonly associated with other heating methods.
Cleaning can be done by wiping the external surface with a damp cloth and allowing it to sit till it dries completely. Avoid getting into contact with water or chemical as they can increase the chances of electric shock. Do not use abrasives or put it in dishwashers. To protect from spill, place a lab mat under your mantle.
It is important to store the heating mantle in a safe area where it won't get damaged or where it will get in contact with chemicals, glassware, or any laboratory materials. It should never come in contact with water. Always make sure the heating mantle is clean, dry, and free from any residues before keeping it.
Inspect heating mantle regularly for any tears, dents, or exposed wires. Replace any torn or damaged heating mantle.
