Reference electrode for partial pressure measurements in high temperature medium - has protective ceramic sleeve enclosing solid electrolyte probe of small size with external connection head to eliminate water cooling

摘要

The reference electrode assembly (10) for measuring the partial pressure of oxygen in an aggressive and high temperature medium e.g. molten glass (100) has a heat resisting outer tube (30) of aluminium oxide which encloses the electrode and is a non-conductor of oxygen ions. The electrode itself is formed as a solid electrolyte of zirconium oxide with Yttrium oxide dosing and its inner end carries a contact element (20) angled to enter the molten bath (100) normal to the bath surface (110) and secured by a non-conducting bolt (60). The connection (50) head (40) is supported (90) external to the bath wall (70). ADVANTAGE - Provides a probe electrode having longer service life than conventional water-cooled alternatives. Requires much smaller entry port in wall due to small contact element which is readily inserted sideways and rotated for immersion of tip. Water cooling complexities are not required and expensive construction with danger of leaks/steam generation obviated.