A magnetic bottle functioned as a component of a starship engine. This component supplied hydrogen to the fuel delivery mechanisms. They were considered essential for the operation of ion drives. A number of magnetic bottles employed Polydex-9 shielding materials for protection. If a magnetic bottle failed while a starship was in flight, it could result in substantial damage. Furthermore, superheated gas was contained by magnetic bottles in welding and cutting instruments, which was necessary for the tool's function.