What Is a Crucible Used For?

Crucibles are containers used to melt and hold substances at a high temperature. They are made of materials that have a higher melting point than those they are designed to hold.

History

Since ancient times, crucibles have been used in metallurgy and glass production. Early crucibles were made of basic materials like clay; later vessels were shaped differently and were designed to produce stronger metals and alloys like bronze. As technology developed in medieval and industrial times, crucibles began to be made from porcelain, advanced ceramics, graphite, and metals with a higher melting point than the substances they contained.

Examples

Crucibles are used in the production of metals, glass and dye, as well as in specialized laboratory processes. Giant crucibles are used in factories for the production of steel and metal alloys.

Metaphorical Usage

"Crucible" is also used as a metaphor for any extreme or draining test, or a place or situation where intense processes force evolution or development of some kind.

References

• Merriam-Webster: Crucible

Resources

• History World: History of Metallurgy
• Morgan Molten Metal Systems: Basics of Crucible Melting