Frequently Asked Questions about our technical ceramic products

Are all tube sizes kept in stock?

We keep an extensive stock at all of our sites but unfortunately we are not able to keep every size. We are usually able to obtain most of the sizes we do not normally keep on relatively short lead times.

Do you offer all sizes in all materials?

Some sizes may not be available in all materials. This is due to manufacturing constraints of certain materials. If you have a specific requirement please contact us. See also our standard stock list.

What is your maximum length of tube?

Most sizes can be made up to 2400mm in length. We carry a range of lengths in stock and have cutting facilities at each of our operational units.

Are your materials gas tight?

Some, specifically those listed with a “P” in the name (i.e EM60P) are porous and therefore are not gas tight.

Do you supply shaped components?

Yes, we can supply to your drawing or help you design the best product.

Can I get custom size tubes?

Yes, however the standard sizes are optimised for performance and should be used if possible. Custom sizes may be subject to a minimum quantity and should be discussed with our technical department in order to help prevent problems in use.

Do you take credit card payment?

Yes, we accept payment by Visa or Master Card. (A Copy of our normal account form is also available on the website.)

What is the delivery time?

Stock items are normally dispatched in 1-3 days . Non stock items will be advised on our quote/order acknowledgement.

Can you hold product stock for me?

Yes, we carry many customer specific stocks and are happy to provide assistance with just in time deliveries, consignment stocks and stock management.

Can I get help with design in order to obtain the best results?

We are more than happy to help. Just let us know and we will provide as much help as you require.

What is the tolerance on standard tubes?

Standard tubes are manufactured to DIN Standard 40 680 (1983). This varies with the diameter/length of tubes. If you have a specific size we can supply this data.

What in the maximum use temperature for alumina ceramics?

Around a maximum of1500c for porous alumina and 1750 for dense alumina depending upon the grade used.

Can I bond ceramics?

Ceramic bonding materials are available to join ceramic to ceramic and these can work well at temperatures over 1000c however, where possible it is always better to use a single piece ceramic or to join several pieces together during the manufacturing process prior to the final firing of the parts.

Will ceramics work under tension?

Ceramics are weak in tension environments but with careful design they can be used in some cases. If a ceramic is to be subject to tension loading then please discuss this with us.

Do I need to pre-heat ceramics?

Some ceramics can withstand considerable thermal shock whilst others are more prone. Pre heating or gentle temperature gradients are always a good idea if possible as this will help increase the life of the ceramic.

Can I replace a metal part with ceramic?

In situations where you need high temperature, chemical, wear or electrical properties then ceramics will often out perform metal parts. In many cases the ceramic will also prove to be more cost effective in these environments.