Why are different metal boats used in the two reduction furnaces?

In the two-stage reduction process for producing metallic molybdenum, different materials are used for the "boats" to accommodate the varying temperature requirements of each stage.

• First Furnace: The initial reduction of oxide occurs at a temperature of 600–700 °C (1,100–1,300 °F), where mild-steel boats are utilized.1
• Second Furnace: The product from the first stage is processed at a significantly higher temperature of 1,000–1,100 °C (1,800–2,000 °F), requiring the use of nickel boats to withstand the increased heat.1

The use of these specific materials ensures the structural integrity of the containers throughout the molybdenum processing cycle.1