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Laboratory ovens designed to provide the relatively low-vacuum environment in the working chamber necessary in some laboratory procedures. They usually operate (frequently using a computer program) at temperatures ranging from ambient to a maximum of between 200 and 300 degrees Celsius (392 to 572 degrees Fahrenheit). These ovens usually consist of a thermal isolated chamber made of corrosion-proof materials and, frequently, thick walls and a glass window; opening and closing purge and vacuum valves and ports; time-and-temperature sensors and controls (either manual or automated); temperature protection, and alarms. Some vacuum ovens permit operation with an inert gas environment in the working chamber. Vacuum laboratory ovens are used mainly in procedures such as desiccating, moisture testing, annealing, and vacuum embedding. They are available in many different capacities (typically from 14 to 54 cubic dm/0.5 to 2 cubic feet) and configurations (e.g., tabletop, upright, undercounter).
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