Wire gauze

Wire gauze is placed on the support ring that is attached to the retort stand between a burner and glassware, or is placed on a tripod to support beakers, flasks, or other glassware to protect it during heating.

[3] Wire gauze was also used in safety lamps containing a flame in coal mines and environments where flammable gases may build up; the gauze prevents the flame from igniting gas outside the lamp, causing an explosion.

[4] The ceramic at the centre of the wire gauze is enmeshed at high pressure to prevent it from peeling.

[5] Wire gauze may be woven from metals including iron,[5] steel,[6] copper,[7] and nichrome.

[8] Nichrome alloy provides long life expectancy and tear resistance.