Shapal Hi M Soft and Macor glass ceramic are often compared because they both are machinable ceramics, however, both of these materials have significantly different mechanical and thermal properties. The following are som factors to consider when choosing between Macor and Shapal. Thermal Conductivity Shapal Hi M is a thermal conductor at 90 W/(m K), Macor is a thermal insulator with a thermal conductivity of 1.46 W/(m K) Thermal Cycle Shapal is not prone to suffering from thermal shock failures while Macor is vulnerable to thermal shock – if the parts have rapid heat up and cool down cycles then Shapal is a better option. Maximum Temperature Shapal has a much higher maximum use temperature of 1900C (in an inert atmosphere) and 1000C (in air). Strength Shapal offers better bending strength (300 vs 94 MPa) as well as better compressive strength ( 1200 vs 345 MPa) when compared with Macor. Cost Macor is a cheaper material that Shapal Hi M Soft, if it can be used instead of Shapal the user will typically see significant cost reductions.