Tripod and Wire Gauze: Uses and How to Use It
Tripod and Wire Gauze: Uses and How to Use It
A tripod is a three-legged metal stand placed over a Bunsen burner to support vessels being heated. A wire gauze (formerly asbestos, now ceramic-centred) sits on top to spread the heat evenly and keep the flame off the glass.
What is a tripod and wire gauze used for?
- Supporting beakers, flasks or evaporating dishes during heating.
- The gauze spreads heat so glassware does not crack from local hot spots.
- Keeping the right distance between flame and vessel.
Parts of a tripod and wire gauze
- 1Ceramic-centred wire gauze – the ceramic centre spreads heat
- 2Top ring – where the gauze and vessel sit
- 3Three legs – sized to fit over a Bunsen burner
How to use a tripod and wire gauze
Set it on a level surface with the gauze on top
Stand the tripod on a level, stable bench, centre the gauze on top (1) and place the Bunsen burner underneath (2).
Place the vessel in the centre of the gauze
Set the vessel over the centre of the gauze (1). Light the burner with a medium blue flame so the tip of the blue cone almost touches the gauze.
Do not touch until cool
The tripod and gauze stay hot for several minutes after the flame is off, even if they do not glow. Lift vessels with tongs and let the tripod cool.
Common mistakes
- Heating glassware on the tripod without gauze: heat concentrates and the glass cracks.
- Moving a hot tripod by hand.
Care and safety
- Replace gauze with flaking ceramic or broken wires.
- Clean off spills once cool to stop the metal rusting.
SOP for using a tripod and wire gauze
A summary of the standard operating procedure (SOP) for a tripod and wire gauze that your laboratory can adapt. Each step is explained in the how-to section above.
1Protective equipment
- A buttoned, long-sleeved lab coat.
- Safety glasses; goggles where corrosive splashes are possible.
- Nitrile gloves suited to the chemicals handled; heat-resistant gloves for hot items.
2Before use
- The tripod is steady; the gauze is intact with no flaking ceramic.
- The tripod height suits the burner.
3Procedure
4After use
- Turn off the burner and let the tripod and gauze cool before moving them.
- Clean spills once cool.
5Verification & calibration
- Inspect the gauze and tripod before each practical; replace damaged gauze.
6Emergencies
- Burn from hot glass: cool under running water for 10–20 minutes; do not apply toothpaste or butter.
- Breakage: never pick up shards by hand. Use a brush and dustpan or tongs and put them in the broken-glass bin.
- Chemical spill: warn people nearby, secure the area and clean up with a spill kit according to the SDS.
A print-ready version with purpose, scope, illustrated procedure, verification and sign-off boxes. Fill in your own document number and effective date.
Download the SOP (PDF, A4)Types and sizes
Tripods are usually painted iron or stainless steel, about 20 cm tall with a 10–15 cm ring. Gauzes come in 12.5 × 12.5 cm to 20 × 20 cm with a ceramic disc in the centre. Asbestos gauzes are no longer used because asbestos is a respiratory hazard.
Tripod and Wire Gauze at AMI Scientific
Examples of tripod and wire gauze available in our store. Prices exclude VAT.
Kasa Pemanas Kawat Cakram Keramik OMM 03.1365.00From Rp54.000
OMM Tripod Stand Series PA 03.149From Rp278.000
AMI Scientific supplies laboratory glassware, instruments and chemicals with tax invoices and delivery across Indonesia.
Frequently asked questions
What does the gauze on a tripod do?
It spreads the flame's heat so glassware is not exposed to local hot spots that can crack it.
Is asbestos gauze still used?
No. Asbestos is harmful if inhaled, so it has been replaced by ceramic-centred gauze.
Related equipment
Compiled by the AMI Scientific team from standard laboratory practice. Illustrations: AMI Scientific. Updated: 06-11-2026.
Need a tripod and wire gauze for your laboratory?
AMI Scientific supplies laboratory glassware, instruments and chemicals with tax invoices and delivery across Indonesia.
Available at AMI Scientific
Kasa Pemanas Kawat Cakram Keramik OMM 03.1365.00
From Rp54.000