Choosing the wrong crucible causes bad data, instrument damage, or costly test repeats. Strict projects depend on knowing each technical detail to reach reliable conclusions.
NETZSCH thermal analysis crucibles come in different materials and sizes. Their technical features support accurate, long-term testing when matched with the right method and proper care.

Over many projects, I have learned that a clear understanding of each specification—like metal grade, temperature rating, and correct storage—saves time and extends lab equipment life. This guide covers real needs I see in every research cycle.
What are the material options available for NETZSCH crucibles?
Different test requirements in labs mean the same type does not fit every job. Many new users make the mistake of using low-grade metal or ceramic for all projects.
NETZSCH offers crucibles in high-purity aluminum, platinum, alumina, gold, and some custom alloys to match a wide range of chemical and heat demands for TGA and DSC.
| Material | Key Benefit | Application/Reference |
|---|---|---|
| High-purity Aluminum | Good for daily polymer, food, and pharma DSC work | Aluminum; up to 600°C |
| Platinum | Offers highest melting point, chemical resistance | Advanced materials, high temp or reactive samples (Platinum) |
| Alumina (Ceramic) | Strong acid/base resistance, up to ~1700°C | Soil, waste, environmental testing |
| Gold | For precise pharmaceutical analysis needing inertness | Drug testing, reference work |
| Custom Alloys | Special mix for unique lab requests | Consult supplier for new method setup |
When handling acid or new battery samples, I have used ceramic/alumina more often for their clean baselines and resistance. Platinum is my go-to for high-heat or reactive work. Matching the crucible’s metal to the sample avoids ugly reactions and protects test investment.
How do NETZSCH crucibles ensure precise temperature measurements?
Labs risk failed experiments if temperature readings are off due to warped pans or metal impurities. Consistency is essential in thermal analysis.
NETZSCH crucibles use tight wall thickness tolerance, high-purity metals, and smooth surface finishes to deliver stable and consistent temperature measurements for every test cycle.
| Design Feature | How It Assures Accuracy | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Tight Wall Tolerance | Unifies heat flow, lowers measurement scatter | ±0.01 mm tolerance check; per manufacturer data |
| Pure Metal Composition | Avoids impurities that can shift thermal baseline | Thermal analysis research |
| Smooth Inner Surface | Gives even contact, reduces “hot spots” | Lab QC best practices |
| Batch Certification | Keeps results traceable and repeatable across orders | Ask for batch ISO or QA docs |
In my own work, I noticed that older, dented crucibles caused clear drift in DSC baselines. Out-of-spec batches trigger support cases. Since switching to verified NETZSCH pans, I have seen fewer inconsistencies and confidently passed audits for product release.
What are the size options for NETZSCH crucibles?
Sample mass and instrument limits change from one project to another. Picking the wrong size can lead to sample waste, sensor errors, or run failures.
NETZSCH crucibles come in volumes from less than 10 µL to over 100 µL, with standard diameters and heights tailored to major DSC and TGA models.
| Volume Range | Typical Usage | Tip/Reference |
|---|---|---|
| <10 µL | Trace or very small samples, specialty methods | Use for rare or high-cost substances |
| 10–40 µL | Common for routine DSC and TGA tests | Good signal-to-noise in most polymers/organics (DSC) |
| 40–100 µL | Heavier/volatile samples, liquids, blends | Ensure instrument supports larger mass |
| Custom Shapes | Specialty research, custom platforms | Contact supplier for tailored specs |
When starting a new lab, I stock 20 µL and 40 µL aluminum pans for standard runs, while keeping a few large-volume or deep pans for adhesive or chunky samples. Good records of what each method used save me time later.
How do you maintain and store NETZSCH crucibles?
Cleanliness is often ignored but gives back more test life than almost any other factor. Dirty or mixed-up pans ruin data, waste money, and delay release of results.
NETZSCH crucibles need gentle cleaning, dry storage in original containers, and batch separation to avoid cross contamination. Inspect for dents or residue before each use.
| Maintenance Step | Why It Matters | Reference/Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Cleaning | Removes residues, extends lifespan | Use mild solvents or thermal cycling (glassware cleaning) |
| Dry Storage | Prevents oxidation and moisture damage | Keep in labeled, closed boxes after every use |
| Batch Labeling | Helps with audit trails, traceability | Assign lot or lab code numbers to each group |
| Visual Inspection | Detect dents, warping, or leftover sample | Do before each analytical run |
| Separate Use | Avoids cross contamination between chemicals | Use new pan for sensitive/regulated samples each time |
My best result with pan reuse came when I kept different boxes by material. Once, reused pans with hidden residue caused a failed chromatogram, so now I log every cleaning. In busy labs, shared maintenance records help avoid mistakes for the next shift or test run.
Knowing the key specifications and care methods for NETZSCH crucibles boosts lab reliability and safety. Carefully selected and maintained crucibles deliver accurate results in every thermal analysis.
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