NCJ Number
151003
Journal
Fire and Arson Investigator Volume: 45 Issue: 1 Dated: (September 1994) Pages: 27,30-31,34-35
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Directed mainly to fire and arson investigators, this paper discusses the measurement of temperature, with emphasis on difficulties, typical errors, and results of experimental burning of cigarettes and matches.
Abstract
Although applying a thermometer to a surface may be a reasonably correct method of temperature measurement in many cases, it will fail to give a reasonable value in many cases. Factors that must be considered are the surface temperature to be measured, the ambient temperature, and properties of the surface and the thermometer. Measuring temperatures of specific items such as large heat sources, small heat sources, matches, and burning cigarettes all involve individual considerations. Tests of a small heat source of 1,000 degrees centigrade reveal some measurements of only a few hundred degrees. In addition, small heat sources such as matches or cigarettes can reach temperatures of 1,000 degrees, contrary to the reports of numerous authors. Therefore, the proper measurement techniques must be used to avoid large errors. Figures, tables, and 2 references