Heating apparatus are a standard item in any laboratory’s inventory, so it’s important that lab workers are familiar with all the different types of heating apparatus and their applications. Read on to learn exactly what chemistry laboratory heating apparatus can be used for and how to avoid accidents when using them.
What does a heating apparatus do?
Laboratories use a form of heating apparatus to regulate temperature throughout the processing of samples and experiments. Temperature is widely regarded as the most important physical variable in controlling biological and chemical experiments, so it’s crucial that temperature is monitored and regulated accurately. Since each device is designed with a specific purpose, it is critical to choose the right heating apparatus for the experiment you are conducting.
It is rare to find a laboratory without at least one heating apparatus, such as an oven, hot plate, heating mantle, oil bath, and more. Typically, heating devices are used in laboratories to:
- Distill solvents for purification
- Investigate the kinetics of chemical reactions
- Determine physical properties i.e boiling point, flashpoint, melting point
- Digest samples
- Dry and sterilize glassware
- Dry precipitates or determine loss on drying
As with most laboratory devices, it is important to practice due diligence when handling any heating apparatus as it can cause burns and boils from direct contact with hot surfaces, boiling liquids, vapors or flames. The devices can also spark, causing fires or explosions. To ensure safe handling of the apparatus, scientists should:
- Ensure the device isn’t faulty or broken
- Make sure the heating device is enclosed and does not come into contact with wires
- Use devices with variable auto transformers to control the input voltage
- Check if the heating device is on or has been used recently, making it already hot
- Protect, insulate and/or ground any conductive surfaces that come into contact with heat
- Avoid leaving the heating apparatus unattended
- Clearly label controls and switches
- Consider unplugging equipment if not in use
- Use an aluminum or silicon tray when carrying heating blocks to avoid burns
Different types of heating apparatus and their uses
Hot plates are one of the most common types of heating apparatus and are used for uniformly heating and stirring samples. They provide less heat than some other options because they don’t use an open flame. Hot plates come in many varieties and can be constructed from aluminum, ceramic materials or enamel.
Inert hot plates
Inert hot plates are the most versatile type of hot plate. They are topped with glass ceramic and enamel, which makes them temperature and chemical resistant and easy to clean. They are less likely to conduct heat to the sides and edges of the hot plate, minimizing the risk of burn for the user.
Inert hot plates also prevent erosion when in contact with corrosive metals, which can occur when using other, aluminum-topped hot plates.
Digital hot plates
A digital hot plate is used in the instance where solutions have a very low tolerance for temperature fluctuation. Digital hot plates have a digital display that allows for more precise temperature control. They also include a built-in timer and temperature alarms, as well as an optional programmer to create a temperature profile.
Discover which hot plate is most suitable for your lab here.
A dry bath is a type of chemistry laboratory heating apparatus intended to heat samples for a variety of applications. They are often used in molecular biology, biochemistry and genetic applications, measuring capacity in blocks. A digital dry bath contains a microchip that allows the temperature to be controlled through the digital interface, whereas an analogue dry bath doesn’t offer this.
A heating mantle sits in contrast to other heating devices found in laboratories, as the glassware holding the solution being heated can be placed in indirect contact with the heating element of the mantle, maintaining a constant temperature within a separate funnel. Heating mantles are designed for experiments that require round-bottom flask heating for distillation or solvent extraction in rotary evaporation procedures.
With laboratory ovens, the heating method is convection and the material being heated is placed in a separate chamber, rather than the main chamber. This method of heating prevents the material burning whilst heating the substance sufficiently to dry or cure it. Ovens are standard chemistry laboratory heating equipment, providing precise temperature control for heating, baking, evaporation and sterilization.
A laboratory incubator supports microbiological culture growth by providing a controlled temperature environment. A standard incubator is an insulated box with an adjustable heater, ranging from 140°-149° F.
Microprocessor-controlled heating blocks are also known as dry bath incubators. They are used to heat samples in flasks, tubes and vials, and are ideal for consistent results and precise temperature stability. Heating blocks are commonly used for preservation and reaction, DNA amplification and electrophoresis. They benefit from digital precision, making them suitable for applications that require accurate results and temperature control.
Head to the Delta for top of the range heating apparatus for your laboratory.
Heating accessories you may find useful:
Heat-resistant accessories
Working with heating apparatus is likely to require heat-resistant tools to help your research. These ensure you can handle your apparatus without danger of burning.
Crucibles - these are vessels in which metallic elements can be melted to cast new objects or be made into alloys. They can withstand very high temperatures so are ideal for use alongside heating apparatus.
Rods - in most laboratories that use a form of heat apparatus, the rod is used to mix liquids and chemicals. They are typically made from a special type of heat-resistant laboratory glass called borosilicate.
Foils - these are usually used to seal labware containers and make weighing dishes and boats. Foil is an ideal material for laboratories dealing with heating apparatus as it can withstand high levels of heat. Some experiments may require a flask or tube to be sealed by foil to protect against oxidation, evaporation and cross-contamination in cell cultures during processing, storage and transportation.
Want to know more? Get in touch with our expert team for advice on the most suitable heating apparatus for your laboratory.