A compact lab apparatus to determine the thermal conductivity (k) of materials. The specimen is heated on one side and cooled on the other; once steady state is reached, heat flow, temperature drop, and geometry are used to compute k. Supplied with fixtures for metal rods (axial method / Searle’s type) and an optional insulating slab (guarded hot-plate) kit.

Parts Used:

1. Heater Assembly: Cartridge/nichrome heater with PID/thermostat
2. Specimen Holders:
3. Metal rod module (axial heat flow; interchangeable rods)
4. Insulating slab module (guarded hot-plate with guard ring) (optional)
5. Heat Sink/Cooling End: Water-cooled plate or fin-cooled block
6. Temperature Sensors: K-type thermocouples or PT100 (multiple along the specimen)
7. Data Unit: Arduino/ESP32 or digital indicator for multi-channel temperature logging
8. Power Measurement: Voltmeter, ammeter/wattmeter for heater input
9. Plumbing (if water-cooled): Rotameter, hoses, valve
10. Insulation: Glass wool/ceramic fiber to minimize radial losses
11. Frame & Safety: Rigid stand, shield, fuse/E-stop, cable management