Safety Shield

The Poncho Safety Shield covers a flask in a Series TM or STM mantle, improving operating safety. Flammable liquids should be processed in Series STM mantles only if a safety shield is used. In sizes 12-liter and larger, the mantle and safety shield are purged with an inert gas such as argon (nitrogen is not recommended because of possible damage to mantle heating elements).

In addition to reducing fire hazards, the shield also protects flasks from falling objects such as screwdrivers or pliers, protects personnel from flying glass and liquid if flask implodes under high vacuum distillation or explodes, and serves as an efficient insulator. It has two glass observation ports so the material being heated is visible, while still affording protection. The shield is furnished with a sealer ring and an NPT purge relief port (1/8" for sizes P1300 and smaller and 3/4" for the others). Shields for multiple-neck flasks may require final fitting in lab. The PK100 installation kit includes all the necessary materials and instructions.

Glas-Col Apparatus Co., 711 Hulman St., P.O. Box 2128, Terre Haute, IN 47802. Tel: 812-235-6167; Fax: 812-234-3121.