[TheForge] Pyrometer (was: Gun Burners)

[Bruce Freeman]

The cheapest high-temperature themomoeter (a.k.a., pyrometer) is a thermocouple and a millivolt meter.

You'll need a type K or a type R thermocouple.  Connect the leads to a millivolt meter.  Convert mV to temperature using a table like this:

http://srdata.nist.gov/its90/type_k/1200to1372.html 

Note that deg. F = 9/5 * deg. C + 32.  Or just google up a table in deg. F if you prefer.

I recommend you don't mount the thermocouple in the forge, as it will eventually burn up.  Just insert it when you want a reading.

You can get thermocouples and tables from http://www.omega.com/prodinfo/thermocouples.html

Bruce
NJ



I'd like to find a good high-temp thermometer, but a friend suggested
using some cheap disposable indicators to get started (they melt at
certain temps, I think)... feedback?  Really curious about the correct
amount of air/ventilation.  :)

thanks y'all!

ben