Setting up a Retort Stand, Boss and Clamp

1. Take the two components of the retort stand (base and rod) and screw them together as shown in the diagram. Take the assembled

retort stand and place it carefully on a safe/secure surface.

2. Now take the boss and securely place it on the retort rod.

3. When attaching the clamp make sure that it is positioned over the base of the retort stand, and is held securely in the boss. The

position of the clamp with respect to the retort base is extremely important. When an item, such as a beaker, is clamped to the

retort stand, its weight needs to be supported so that the stand does not tip over during an experiment.

Setting up the Retort Stand, Retort Ring and Gauze

Repeat steps 1 and 2 from above

3. Now take the retort ring and gauze and securely place it on the retort rod. When attaching the retort ring and gauze, make sure

that it is positioned over the base of the retort stand, and is held securely to the rod.

The position of the retort ring and gauze with respect to the retort

base is extremely important. When an item, such as a beaker, is placed on the gauze, its weight needs to be supported so that the

stand does not tip over during an experiment.

4. Place the alcohol burner on the base of the retort stand and adjust the height of the gauze to approximately 3 cm above the wick.

Never adjust the gauze height while something is on it, or while the burner is lit.