An Automatic Apparatus for Testing Refractories Under Tensile and Compressive Loads at High Temperatures

Abstract

Construction and operating details are given for an apparatus used for testing small refractory specimens under tensile or compressive loads up to 2200°C. An electrical resistance, graphite tube furnace can be made to heat at a uniform rate of 0° to 1000°C. per hour and to shut off at a predetermined specimen temperature or deformation. Temperature is measured by a radiation pyrometer and controlled by a duration‐adjusting, impulse‐type controller. Deformation is measured by means of a micrometer dial gauge and transmitted through a slide wire rheostat to a bridge‐type recorder. A standard deviation of 22°C. for compression failure and 24°C. for tensile failure was determined on a periclase refractory.