The little black things in the pictures are plastic, and form major 'hinges' helping control the way it all works...unlike the other joints which are regular bent wire. I'd be hesitant to put the thing in hot water, and it would be easy to get food caught in the plastic parts...I guess it would best be used as SINSULL says, to carry hot bowls & such ans serve as an adjustable trivet of sorts.

I'd sure like to see how one of the things is assembled...and for laughs, video of early attempts.