Induction heating, temperature field and growth rate for a sublimation growth system of silicon carbide were calculated by using a global simulation model. The effects of shape of the crucible on temperature distribution and growth rate were investigated. It was found that thickness of the substrate holder, distance between the powder and substrate, and angle between the crucible wall and powder free surface are important for growth rate and crystal quality. Finally, a curved powder free surface was also studied. The results indicate that the use of a curved powder free surface is also an effective method for obtaining a higher growth rate. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.