Test bench for determination of the pyrometric cone equivalent (refractoriness) PCE 428 (Pyrometric Cone Equivalent)

Because of the heterogeneity of their composition and structure, ceramic refractories do not exhibit a uniform melting point. The refractoriness is characterized by the optical determination of the pyrometric cone equivalent (according to Seger), i.e. the temperature at which the tip of a cone made of the sample material softens to the point that it touches the base plate. Reference cones with well-established pyrometric cone equivalents at temperature intervals of 10°C and above (designated SK xx or ISO xxx) along with the test cones made from the sample material are heated in the same furnace, so that it is possible to make an accurate comparative temperature determination for the softening point of the refractory material to within approx. 20°C.

The NETZSCH PCE 428 test bench has a mechanical lever, which positions the base plate for the sample and reference cones in the hood furnace from below; a viewing window in the furnace lid with a radiation filter and surface mirror allow visual determination of the pyrometric cone equivalent. The maximum temperature for this melting point determination is 1700°C (complies with SK 31, ISO 170), in accordance with DIN EN 993-12. The furnace is equipped with a single temperature controller.

The NETZSCH PCE 428 is operated independent of software.