Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequently asked questions people ask us. If you can’t find an answer on this page, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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Do you supply or work with other materials that are not listed on your website?
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 – please contact us with your specific requirements for more information. Our goal it to optimize the material selection and design for the customer, rather than what is right for our capability.
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Can you help me with material selection and design of ceramics?
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 by designing an appropriate component for ceramic manufacture from simple suggestions to more complex solutions. Contact us with details of your application and one of our engineers will be happy to help you.
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Are you willing to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement for confidential projects?
Precision Ceramics works with many organizations to develop projects that may be confidential or sensitive in nature. We have an established record of working with our customers to ensure that the highest level of privacy is maintained for confidential projects.
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Can I machine the ceramics myself?
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-specialized tooling but it can be done and many of our customers take advantage of this when they need extremely fast solutions in-house.
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Can I get a sample or purchase a small quantity?
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.
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What is the maximum size of Macor I can purchase?
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.
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What is the maximum size of Shapal I can purchase?
We have recently been able to increase the maximum size availability of Shapal to 300mm x 300mm x 64mm. We carry many standard sizes of Shapal in stock and can supply fully machined components or non-standard sizes on request.
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What is the maximum working temperature of Macor?
Macor begins to soften at 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.
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What is the maximum working temperature of Shapal Hi M Soft?
Shapal can be used at temperatures up to 1,900°C in an inert atmosphere and up to 1,000°C in an oxidizing atmosphere. Click Here for further information about Shapal’s material properties.
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Do you have a minimum order value?
No, we are happy to cater to any size project.
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Do you ship internationally?
Yes we can ship to virtually anywhere in the world. Typically we will use FEDEX Express or we can also arrange shipments on your own courier account if you prefer to take this route.
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How long will it take for you to send me a quote?
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.