The Ultimate Guide to Fused Quartz Glass Tubes
Fused quartz glass tubes are integral components in various scientific and industrial applications due to their exceptional properties, including high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and optical clarity. This guide will explore the key features, types, applications, and technical specifications of fused quartz glass tubes, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding to make informed decisions.
| Type of Fused Quartz Glass Tube | Dimensions (mm) | Key Applications | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE 214 Fused Quartz Tubing | 10.5 x 12.75 | Mercury and halogen lamps | High purity, low OH content, high transmittance |
| Custom Quartz Tube | Various | Laboratory experiments, heating elements | Excellent thermal resistance, chemical inertness |
| Milky Quartz Tube | Customizable | Chemical processing | Resistant to strong acids/bases, high thermal shock resistance |
| Transparent Quartz Tube | Various | Optical instruments | High optical clarity and transmittance |
| Translucent Quartz Tube | Various | General laboratory use | Good balance of thermal and chemical properties |
What is Fused Quartz Glass?
Fused quartz glass is a type of glass composed almost entirely of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). Unlike regular glass, which contains various additives that can affect its properties, fused quartz is made by melting high-purity silica. This process results in a material that boasts unique characteristics, making it highly sought after in industries such as electronics, optics, and chemical processing.
Key Properties of Fused Quartz Glass Tubes
Fused quartz glass tubes are known for several key properties:
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High Thermal Resistance: Fused quartz can withstand extreme temperatures, making it ideal for high-heat applications. It maintains structural integrity even at temperatures exceeding 1,000°C.
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Chemical Inertness: Fused quartz is resistant to most chemicals, including strong acids and bases. This makes it suitable for use in laboratories and chemical processing environments.
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Optical Clarity: Its excellent light transmittance properties make fused quartz ideal for optical applications, such as lenses and fiber optics.
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Electrical Insulation: Fused quartz serves as an excellent electrical insulator, making it a preferred choice in electronic applications.
Applications of Fused Quartz Glass Tubes
Fused quartz glass tubes find diverse applications across various fields:
1. Laboratory Use
In laboratories, fused quartz glass tubes are utilized for chemical experiments, sample storage, and as components in various analytical instruments. Their chemical resistance ensures reliability and longevity in experiments.
2. Optical Instruments
Due to their high optical clarity, fused quartz tubes are employed in optical devices, including lenses, prisms, and fiber optics. They allow for efficient light transmission and minimal distortion.
3. Lighting Applications
Fused quartz glass is commonly used in the manufacturing of incandescent and halogen lamps. The high-temperature resistance and low hydroxyl content of GE 214 fused quartz make it the worldwide standard for quartz lamp tubing.
4. Industrial Heating Elements
In industrial settings, fused quartz tubes are often used as components in heating elements. Their ability to endure high temperatures while remaining chemically inert makes them suitable for applications in semiconductor and materials processing.
5. Chemical Processing
Fused quartz tubes are widely used in chemical processing due to their resistance to corrosive substances. They are employed in reactors, distillation columns, and other equipment where chemical reactions occur.
Technical Specifications of Fused Quartz Glass Tubes
| Feature | GE 214 Fused Quartz | Custom Quartz Tubes | Milky Quartz Tubes | Transparent Quartz Tubes | Translucent Quartz Tubes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purity Level | High purity | High purity | Medium purity | High purity | Medium purity |
| Thermal Stability | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Optical Clarity | High | Varies | Low | High | Medium |
| Temperature Range | Up to 1,200°C | Up to 1,000°C | Up to 1,050°C | Up to 1,200°C | Up to 1,050°C |
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Conclusion
Fused quartz glass tubes are invaluable across various industries due to their unique properties such as high thermal resistance, chemical inertness, and optical clarity. Understanding the types, applications, and technical specifications of these tubes can help you select the right product for your specific needs. Whether for laboratory experiments, industrial heating, or optical applications, fused quartz glass tubes offer unmatched performance and reliability.
FAQ
What is fused quartz glass?
Fused quartz glass is a high-purity glass made primarily of silicon dioxide. It is known for its exceptional thermal stability, chemical resistance, and optical clarity, making it ideal for various scientific and industrial applications.
What are the main applications of fused quartz glass tubes?
Fused quartz glass tubes are used in laboratories, optical instruments, lighting applications, industrial heating elements, and chemical processing due to their unique properties.
How does fused quartz compare to regular glass?
Fused quartz has higher thermal resistance and chemical inertness than regular glass, which contains various additives that can compromise its performance under extreme conditions.
What is the temperature tolerance of fused quartz glass?
Fused quartz glass can typically withstand temperatures exceeding 1,000°C, making it suitable for high-heat applications.
Are fused quartz tubes available in different sizes?
Yes, fused quartz tubes come in various sizes and shapes, allowing for customization based on specific application requirements.
What is the purity level of GE 214 fused quartz?
GE 214 fused quartz is known for its high purity, low hydroxyl content, and high transmittance, making it the standard for quartz lamp tubing.
Can fused quartz glass be used in chemical processing?
Absolutely! Fused quartz glass is resistant to most chemicals, making it a reliable choice for use in chemical processing environments.
Is fused quartz electrically conductive?
No, fused quartz is an excellent electrical insulator, making it suitable for electronic applications.
How does the optical clarity of fused quartz impact its use?
The high optical clarity of fused quartz allows for efficient light transmission, making it ideal for optical applications like lenses and fiber optics.
Where can I purchase fused quartz glass tubes?
Fused quartz glass tubes can be purchased from various suppliers, including technicalglass.com, axquartz.com, and other specialized glass manufacturers.
