what is a clay triangle used for in chemistry

A clay triangle, also known as a pipeclay triangle, is a piece of laboratory equipment used in chemistry to support a crucible while it is heated over a Bunsen burner or other heat source. It is made of wires strung in an equilateral triangle on which are strung hollow ceramic tubes. The triangular shape allows rounded crucibles of various sizes to rest in a stable way. The clay triangle serves a similar purpose to a gauze mat, which is used to support a substance while it is heated to a high temperature. To use a clay triangle, clamp an iron ring to a ring stand, place the clay triangle on the iron ring, and situate the Bunsen burner underneath it. Put the crucible on the clay triangle and heat it. The clay triangle is important because it provides adequate support to materials with a bottom rounded, which tend to be unstable if wire gauze is employed.