1. Prepare the Crucible:
- Place the crucible inside the crucible tongs, ensuring it is securely held.
2. Open the Tongs:
- Open the tongs by squeezing the handles.
3. Hold the Crucible:
- Grasp the crucible with the tongs, making sure it is well-centered and stable.
4. Close the Tongs:
- Close the tongs by releasing the handles, ensuring a firm grip on the crucible.
5. Handle the Crucible:
- Use the tongs to handle the crucible over a heat source or during pouring or transferring of liquids.
6. Rest the Crucible:
- Place the crucible on a stable surface using the tongs to avoid direct contact with the hot crucible.
7. Cool the Crucible:
- Allow the crucible to cool down completely before handling it without the tongs.
8. Clean and Store:
- After use, clean the tongs and the crucible thoroughly and store them in a designated location.
Here are some additional safety tips for using crucible tongs:
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as heat-resistant gloves and safety goggles.
- Only handle crucibles that are at a safe temperature to avoid burns.
- Use the tongs to place and remove crucibles from heat sources to avoid direct contact with the hot surfaces.
- Be cautious when pouring or transferring liquids from a hot crucible to prevent spills and splashes.
- Never touch the crucible with bare hands after heating it.
- Periodically inspect the crucible tongs for any damage or wear and replace them if necessary.