Optimization of a Graphite Tube Blackbody Heater for a Thermogage Furnace

Abstract

Design modifications are presented for a 289-mm long, 25.4-mm inner diameter blackbody heater element of a 48 kW Thermogage blackbody furnace, based on (i) cutting a small â¿¿heater zoneâ¿¿ into the ends of the tube and (ii) using a mixture of He and Ar or N2 to â¿¿tuneâ¿¿ the heat losses and, hence, gradients in the furnace. A simple numerical model for the heater tube is used to model and optimize these design changes, and experimental measurements of the modified temperature profile are presented