21 Position Vacuum Arc Melting Furnace for High Temperature Metal Alloy Research

Product Overview

This advanced vacuum arc melting system is engineered for the precise melting of high-temperature metals and alloys, achieving temperatures up to 3500°C. With a 21-position water-cooled copper crucible and rotating mechanism, it enables efficient production of button ingots with superior homogeneity. The integrated high-vacuum system and argon atmosphere provide a clean, controlled environment essential for reactive metal processing.

It serves as an indispensable tool in metallurgical research, material science laboratories, and industrial R&D centers. Typical applications include development of new high-entropy alloys, production of specialty metal samples, and small-batch fabrication for prototype evaluation. Universities, national labs, and advanced manufacturing facilities rely on this equipment for consistent and repeatable results.

Built from high-grade materials and precision components, the furnace delivers exceptional durability under demanding thermal cycles. Its rugged design, coupled with intuitive controls and safety interlocks, ensures stable long-term operation with minimal maintenance, instilling confidence in every melting process.

Key Features

• 21-Position Water-Cooled Copper Crucible with Flipping Mechanism: The heart of the system is a high-purity copper hearth featuring 21 hemispherical pockets, each 60 mm in diameter and 30 mm deep, capable of holding 100–200 grams of feedstock. A robust water-cooling circuit maintains crucible integrity even at 3500°C. The integrated mechanical flipping arm turns each melt without vacuum break, ensuring homogeneous alloy composition through repeated melting and turning cycles.
• High-Vacuum Environment: The system achieves a cold limit vacuum of ≤10 Pa using a 2X-30 rotary vane mechanical pump backed by a high-vacuum pneumatic flapper valve and a precise resistance vacuum gauge. This level of vacuum removes reactive gases and moisture, preventing oxidation during arc melting. Before introducing argon, the chamber is evacuated to a clean baseline, guaranteeing a pure inert atmosphere for sensitive materials.
• Precision Arc Melting with High-Frequency Ignition: Arc is initiated via a high-frequency ignition system, striking reliably at the touch of a button. The consumable electrode, mounted on a ball-sealed manipulator, provides millimeter-scale gap control through an electric lift mechanism. The power supply delivers a stable current up to 1000 A, allowing rapid heating and precise temperature regulation up to 3500°C for a wide range of metals.
• Argon Inert Gas Operation: Melting is performed under a protective argon atmosphere, supplied through precision flow control. The sealed chamber maintains positive argon pressure to shield the melt pool from residual oxygen and nitrogen, critical for reactive elements like titanium, zirconium, and their alloys.
• User-Friendly Bell-Jar Loading: The front bell-jar door opens wide for easy access to the crucible, simplifying sample insertion and removal. A large toughened glass observation window, equipped with a manual wipe mechanism, provides a clear view of the vibrant arc and molten pool, allowing operators to monitor the process and clean the window without opening the chamber.
• Multi-Position Rotary Indexing: The crucible rotates automatically or manually (as configured) to bring each pocket under the electrode. This sequential processing capability, combined with the flipping function, enables unattended melting of all 21 positions in one pump-down, maximizing throughput for small-batch production.
• Durable Electrode and Manipulator Assembly: The cathode electrode rod and mechanical manipulator are constructed with corrosion-resistant materials and sealed via ball joints, ensuring a leak-tight barrier while permitting smooth motion. The electrode lift is motorized for repeatable positioning.
• Integrated Safety Systems: The equipment incorporates over-temperature cut-off, vacuum interlock (prevents arc ignition unless vacuum is established), and emergency stop button. Cooling water flow sensors safeguard the crucible against thermal damage.
• Flexible Configuration and Customization: Recognizing varied research needs, this furnace platform supports optional accessories such as additional crucible geometries (different pocket sizes or numbers), enhanced pumping packages for deeper vacuum, and automated control upgrades. Contact our engineering team to tailor the system exactly to your process requirements.

Applications

Technical Specifications

Why Choose This Product

• Industry-Proven Reliability: Thousands of melting cycles in demanding academic and industrial settings have demonstrated this furnace's ability to maintain vacuum integrity and stable arc performance with minimal drift. The robust construction withstands thermal shock and frequent use.
• Precision Engineering for Pristine Melts: Every component in contact with the melt or vacuum is machined from high-purity materials, minimizing outgassing and contamination. The ball-sealed electrode and copper crucible ensure no unintended reactions, preserving the chemical identity of your alloys.
• Ergonomic and Safe Operation: The bell-jar access, combined with the motorized electrode lift and large viewing window, reduces manual labor and allows clear monitoring. Comprehensive interlocks protect both operator and equipment.
• Tailored Solutions for Unique Processes: Beyond the standard configuration, we offer customization of crucible geometries, vacuum pump upgrades (e.g., turbomolecular pumps for UHV), inert gas recirculation, and data acquisition systems. Our team works closely with you to integrate the furnace into your workflow.
• Global Support Network: Professional installation, on-site training, and responsive after-sales service ensure that your investment yields immediate and lasting productivity. Contact us now to discuss your project or request a competitive quote.