A magnet embedded in the heating surface works with a magnetic stirring bar to stir liquids automatically. These hot plates have a hot surface warning light to protect against accidental burns. They are ceramic or ceramic coated, so they clean easily and resist acids and alkalies.

Set one or more bearings flat on the plate. This heater has a thermostat that adjusts from 120° to 390° F and lights that indicate when the plate has reached the desired temperature. It’s housed in a metal case that minimizes heat loss and keeps dirt out of your bearings. In case of overheating, the heater will shut off.

Keep drum contents warm and ready to roll. These dollies are often used for noncontact heating of thick, nonflammable, and nonhazardous materials such as wax. All have a time-cycle controller that constantly cycles on and off to keep your material warm. Turn the dial to adjust the ratio of on to off time. Since the controller has no built-in temperature sensor, it requires a thermometer (sold separately) to measure the temperature of the drum's contents to determine your desired heat setting.