source for cheap pyrometer

D

Dana Hackney

Joined
Nov 1, 2005
Messages
174
Hi folks,

The more I read the more I think it would be a good idea to spend some more:grumpy: $ and
get a pyrometer for the forge I'm about to (finally) fire up.

Is there a reliable source for a cheap one of these units? Also, do I need to buy a
shield/tube for the thermocouple?

Many thanks,
Dana Hackney
Monument, CO
 
I've seen some decent controllers on eBay, at about $50 or so.
Make sure it's one that works with a k thermocouple, and will cover the temp range you need.
It's good to get a sheathed k thermocouple or two...
 
I have noticed that the units that say they are good up to near 2500 degrees come with a probe that is only good to 600 degrees. When researching for a probe that is good to the 2500 degree range the cost jumped considerable. Are you all using the lower temp probe and replacing them went the burn up or are you using the expensive higher temp probes? Don
 
A type T thermocouple goes to 662°F, which is useless in a forge or kiln.
A type K will go to 2282°F...
You can get expensive or cheap models of both types.
The costs don't jump when going from type T to type K. They go down...
The prices go up when comparing sheathed thermocouples and plastic coated wire thermocouples.
 
I was looking at the miniature high temperture thermometer for Enco. It is in the $80 dollar range and comes with a type K probe. I called Enco for information on the unit and they referred me to Mannix Instruments, the maker of the unit, for information. When talking to a rep at Mannix, I was infomed that the probe that came with the unit would only be good to around 600 degrees upper range. The thermometer is ranged from -328-2498 degrees F. They have a probe that recommended for the unit's upper range for around $180.00 (probe only). mannix-inst.com
Is this type probe necessary or will the cheaper ones work?
 
Guys
http://www.davis.com/showpage.asp?L3ID=1193
I've been using one of the single chanel types for 10 years. Used to use it on my heat treating oven up to 1990°F, I now just use it to monitor tempering oven temps.

If you want control check out the temperature controllers at B&B Electronics. They don't come with probes and you have to read hyroglyphics to program them but they should do the job. I have one on order. I critique it when it arrives.

Jim Arbuckle
 
Cheaper ones will work. If you shop around on Ebay and look into companies that make them you can get K thermocouples that will last you months in the $40 range. Cheaper if you get real lucky on Ebay.


Seth
 
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