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MU0085 Molybdenum Crucible

Catalog No.Mo-3N5-MC
Size10-500mm OD x 10-600mm L
StandardASTM B387
PurityMo≥99.95%
Density9.8 – 10.2 g/cc
SurfaceFinish turning, Polishing

Molybdenum crucibles come in a wide range of shapes, purities, sizes, and price points to suit different applications. TFM, a reliable supplier of sputtering targets, also specializes in producing high-quality evaporation materials and containers.

Introduction

Molybdenum Crucible

Molybdenum Crucibles are essential components in high-temperature material processing and vacuum deposition systems. Known for their exceptional melting point and chemical stability, these crucibles are widely used in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, crystal growth, and advanced metallurgy. Their ability to withstand extreme thermal environments while maintaining structural integrity makes them a preferred choice for demanding applications.

Detailed Description

Molybdenum crucibles are fabricated from high-purity molybdenum using processes such as powder metallurgy, spinning, or machining from forged billets. With a melting point of 2623°C, molybdenum offers outstanding thermal resistance, allowing the crucible to perform reliably under high vacuum or inert gas atmospheres.

Key characteristics include:

  • Excellent high-temperature strength: Maintains mechanical stability even above 1500°C

  • Low vapor pressure: Minimizes contamination during evaporation processes

  • Good thermal conductivity: Ensures uniform heat distribution and reduces thermal gradients

  • Resistance to thermal shock: Suitable for rapid heating and cooling cycles

  • Chemical compatibility: Stable with many metals and compounds under vacuum or reducing conditions

Molybdenum crucibles are available in various shapes such as cylindrical, conical, square, or custom geometries. Surface finishes can be machined, polished, or coated depending on application requirements. For enhanced performance, optional coatings such as alumina or yttria can be applied to improve oxidation resistance and extend service life.

Due to molybdenum’s sensitivity to oxidation at elevated temperatures, these crucibles are typically used in vacuum or protective atmospheres (e.g., argon or hydrogen). Custom dimensions, wall thicknesses, and tolerances can be precisely controlled to match specific furnace or evaporation system configurations.

Applications

Molybdenum crucibles are widely used in high-temperature and vacuum environments:

  • Vacuum Evaporation: Containers for metals and compounds in thermal or e-beam deposition

  • Crystal Growth: Used in sapphire, silicon, and oxide crystal production processes

  • Rare Earth Processing: Handling and melting of high-purity rare earth materials

  • Metallurgy & Alloying: High-temperature melting and refining of metals

  • Laboratory Furnaces: Crucibles for R&D and material testing under controlled atmospheres

  • Coating Industry: Source containers for thin film deposition materials

Technical Parameters

ParameterTypical Value / RangeImportance
Purity99.9% – 99.97%Reduces contamination in high-temp processes
Density≥ 10.1 g/cm³Indicates material integrity and strength
Melting Point2623°CEnables extreme temperature applications
Operating Temp.Up to 1800–2000°C (vacuum)Practical working range
Diameter10 – 500 mm (custom)Matches furnace or deposition systems
Wall Thickness0.5 – 10 mmBalances strength and heat transfer

Comparison with Related Materials

MaterialKey AdvantageTypical Application
Molybdenum CrucibleHigh melting point, cost-effectiveGeneral high-temp use
Tungsten CrucibleHigher temperature capability (>3000°C)Extreme environments
Tantalum CrucibleExcellent corrosion resistanceReactive materials
Graphite CrucibleLow cost, good thermal shock resistanceNon-vacuum melting

FAQ

QuestionAnswer
Can molybdenum crucibles be customized?Yes, dimensions, shapes, and surface finishes can be tailored to your system.
Are they suitable for use in air?No, molybdenum oxidizes at high temperatures in air; vacuum or inert atmosphere is required.
What coating options are available?Alumina, yttria, or other protective coatings can be applied to enhance performance.
How long is the service life?It depends on operating temperature, atmosphere, and material used, but high purity Mo ensures longer life.
What industries commonly use molybdenum crucibles?Semiconductor, crystal growth, metallurgy, energy, and research sectors.

Packaging

Our Molybdenum Crucibles are meticulously tagged and labeled externally to ensure efficient identification and maintain high standards of quality control. We take great care to prevent any potential damage during storage and transportation, ensuring the crucibles arrive in perfect condition.

Conclusion

Molybdenum Crucibles offer a reliable and high-performance solution for high-temperature and vacuum applications. With excellent thermal stability, mechanical strength, and customizable options, they are widely trusted across advanced manufacturing and research industries.

For detailed specifications and a quotation, please contact us at sales@thinfilmmaterials.com.

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FAQ

A crucible is a heat-resistant container designed to hold materials during high-temperature processes such as melting, alloying, or chemical reactions. They’re essential in metal casting, laboratory analyses, and even certain thin-film deposition systems.

Crucibles are usually made from ceramics like alumina, zirconia, silicon carbide, or magnesia due to their high melting points and chemical inertness. Graphite and metal (e.g., steel) crucibles are also used for lower temperature applications.

The ideal crucible depends on the temperature and chemical nature of the process. Always select a crucible material with a melting point significantly higher than that of the material being processed and one that is chemically compatible to prevent reactions or contamination.

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as heat-resistant gloves, face shields, and aprons. Use proper tongs for handling, ensure adequate ventilation, and follow established protocols to avoid thermal shock and accidental spills.

Prior to use, crucibles are usually “dried” or pre-fired to remove moisture and avoid thermal shock. Some applications recommend a seasoning or “dressing” process to improve performance and extend the crucible’s lifespan.

Crucibles should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area on wood shelving or other non-abrasive supports—not directly on concrete or metal floors—to avoid damage. They should also not be nested together to prevent chipping or cracking.

Yes, most crucibles are designed for multiple uses if they’re properly maintained and cleaned. However, frequent use at extreme temperatures or for reactive materials may eventually degrade them, in which case replacement is necessary.

Common challenges include cracking from rapid temperature changes (thermal shock), contamination from residual materials, and wear or erosion from high-temperature exposure. Following proper handling and maintenance guidelines helps mitigate these issues.

Allow the crucible to cool completely, then remove any residues with a suitable scraper or chemical cleaner if recommended. Some crucibles benefit from an acid wash to remove stubborn deposits—but always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent damage.

Ensure the crucible is pre-heated and free of moisture. Load the material slowly and evenly using appropriate tools to prevent splashing or uneven heating. For heavy or large pieces, use tongs or specialized equipment to maintain safety and consistency.

In metal casting, crucibles are used to melt and hold metals for forming alloys or casting components. In evaporation processes (e.g., thin-film deposition), they heat materials to their vaporization point, allowing controlled deposition onto substrates.

Their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and resist chemical reactions makes crucibles indispensable. They enable precise control over high-temperature processes in metallurgy, materials science, and chemical analysis, ensuring product quality and process reliability.

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