Frequently Asked Questions

Q – What types of ceramic do you supply?

A – Precision Ceramics is unusual as we offer the full range of technical ceramics from machinable grades like Macor and Shapal through to materials that require diamond grinding like alumina, zirconia, carbides and nitrides. We can machine and supply virtually any ceramic material. This allows us to optimise the material selection and design what is right for you the customer, rather than what is right for our capability.

Q – We are looking for good thermal conductance in a ceramic for an electrical application. What are my options?

A – Electrical insulation combined with good thermal conductance are often in demand. Alumina is good electrically but its thermal conductivity is only 26 w/m/k. When customers require higher thermal conductivity, ALN (Aluminium Nitride) or a composite of ALN and BN (Boron Nitride) are the best options. ALN with a thermal conductivity of 180w/m/k and composite, the best being Shapal Hi M Soft at over 90 w/m/k. Other materials are available but BEO or (Beryllia Oxide) has a number of health and safety restrictions.

Q – I am used to working with metals and plastics. Can you help me with material selection and design of ceramics?

A – Yes we can. We have a competent team of technical sales staff with many years experience that can help you chose the right material. Whether it is for wear, thermal management, electrical properties, or something else, we can help you with design consultation to find an appropriate component for ceramic manufacture from simple suggestions to more complex solutions. Email info@precision-ceramics.co.uk with details of your application or call +44 121 687 5858 and one of our engineers will be happy to help you.

Q – Can I machine the ceramics myself?

A – The harder ceramics like alumna and zirconia will require diamond tooling but other materials like Macor and Shapal can be machined. To get the right result it does take time, experience and semi-specialised tooling but it can be done and many of our customers take advantage of this when they need extremely fast solutions in-house.

Q – Can I purchase finished components?

A – Unlike many companies we have a dedicated ceramics machining facility, including 4th and 5th axis machining. Because of this, our prices and response rates are very competitive. We will also certify and guarantee all the ceramics we supply.

Q – Can I get a sample or purchase a small quantity?

A – Yes, we are happy to supply small samples of material for you to test. We can also supply prototype quantities through to volume production to suit your needs.

Q – What is the maximum size of Macor I can purchase?

A – 300mm x300mm x 55mm is the maximum size and we can supply any smaller size or shape on request. We also carry many standard sizes of Macor bar, rod and sheet in stock for quick delivery. We are happy to discuss supplying fully machined components produced in our in-house facility. A thickness of 60mm may be possible in some applications.

Q – What is the maximum size of Shapal I can purchase?

A – We have recently been able to increase the maximum size availability of Shapal to 300mm x 300mm x 84mm. We carry many standard sizes of Shapal in stock and can supply fully machined components or non-standard sizes on request.

Q – What is the maximum working temperature of Macor?

A – Macor begins to soften 1,000°C so for continuous use we would recommend a maximum working temperature of 850’C. We have other ceramics that can be used under load at over 2,000°C.

Q – What is the maximum working temperature of Shapal Hi M Soft?

A – Shapal can be used at temperatures up to 1,900°C in an inert atmosphere and up to 1,000°C in an oxidising atmosphere. Click Here for further information.

Q – Do you have a minimum order value?

A – Yes. It’s £100, exclusive of VAT.

Q – Do you ship internationally?

A – Yes we can ship to virtually anywhere in the world. Typically we will use FEDEX Express which takes just a few days at an average cost of approximately £45.00 including packaging. We can also arrange shipments on your own courier account if you prefer to take this route.

Q – How long will it take for you to send me a quote?

A – This depends totally on the complexity of your requirements. For simple items such as bars and rods, we can generally supply a quotation within 48 hours. For more complex items, we should be able to respond within 3 to 4 days.

If you have any other specific question on any of our products or services, please contact us by email:
info@precision-ceramics.co.uk

Or by telephone – +44 121 687 5858.