What is a clay triangle used for?

Also known as a clay triangle, a pipeclay triangle serves as a supporting structure for items being heated on a Bunsen burner or other open flame heat source in a laboratory setting. The apparatus is shaped like an equilateral triangle with three 60 degree angles.

A pipeclay triangle is constructed from wires with ceramic or catlinite tubing, allowing it to support heatproof crucible containers while providing direct heat. The alternative is wire gauze, which is better suited for work with beakers and other glassware containers that needs indirect exposure because they can be damaged by direct heat. Both items are used extensively in laboratories that conduct chemical experiments.