Tripods

A tripod gives you a stable platform over a burner when a ring stand is not practical. Cast iron takes direct flame and will not deform under repeated heating. What sits on top depends on the job: wire gauze to spread the heat under a beaker or a flask, or a clay triangle to hold a crucible so the flame reaches it directly and nothing metal touches the hot porcelain. Choose the height and ring diameter that clears your burner and matches the glassware you heat most often.