A Precision Method for Determining the Thermal Diffusivity of Solids

Abstract

The method described utilizes a transient heat-flow phenomenon requiring the measurement only of time interval and a quantity proportional to temperature difference. The theory of the method is fully developed, and apparatus and procedure for meeting the conditions of the theory are described, together with methods for eliminating and minimizing errors. The results of a test on a nickel specimen are given, showing a precision of about 0.1 percent.