Appendix

Upgrade path (Section 8)

  • Deploy an inert ceramic-metal anode to eliminate residual carbon contact.

  • Expand the MOE pot with dual-zone heaters for higher throughput.

  • Upgrade spectrometers for deeper UV coverage to resolve trace boron/phosphorus.

  • Automate tapping and ladle handling, integrating spectral feedback for closed-loop recipe tuning.

Target setpoints (Appendix A)

  • MOE hot-zone: 1625 °C nominal.

  • Fe stage: current density 0.2–0.4 A cm⁻², tuned via OES.

  • Si stage: increase potential by 10–20 % compared to the Fe stage, watching silicon emission and headspace oxygen.

  • Vacuum refining: 1700–1800 °C, ≤10 Pa, 30–90 min hold.

Minimal tools (Appendix B)

  • IR thermometer for quick checks.

  • Torque drivers, crimp kits, and electrical hand tools.

  • TIG-grade gloves, tongs, face shield, and PPE described in the safety chapter.

  • Precision scale and sieve set for feed preparation.

Expected consumables per 10 runs (Appendix C)

  • Argon: ≤1 m³ with reclaim.

  • Liners: 1 primary ZrO₂ liner plus 1 Al₂O₃ backup.

  • Anode face or coating: replace as needed if consumable.

Cost recap

The v0.1 build lands at \$8.8–9.8k when leveraging surplus procurement strategies detailed in Materials & Components. Track actual expenses to refine future revisions of the manual.