thermocouples

I create art lamps/shades and want to make them a safe as possible before selling them. I read in a book that "you can measure the surface tempearture by taping thermocouples to the inside of the shade. Turn the lamp on, and once the temperature has stabilized, record the tempereature with a digital thermometer." But I am having trouble finding the appropriate type of thermocouples (the book gives no supplier name). When I search on the web, I only find the large ones used in radiators etc. Does anyone have a source where I can purchase these? Thank you very much

 

Thermocouples operate on the principle that when two dissimilar metals are connected together, a voltage is generated that is proportional to the temperature of the junction. This voltage is very small-typically on the order of microvolts. Different types of metals produce different temp vs voltage responses. They are designated by different letters-types J and K being most common
Thermocouples require some sort of electronic interface to reveal a temperature reading.
There are many examples of industrial temperature measurement tools, ranging in price from a few tens to a few thousand dollars. A non contact infrared thermometer might be best for you. Since you don't need to know the exact temperature but whether it's above a safe limit, this would allow you to take many measurements without the hassle of repeatedly moving the TC, making sure it had good contact with the fixture, letting it stabilize, etc.
Transcat is a large distributor of this type of equipment. Omega engineering is another.
I saw a basic IR thermometer good to 260 C for $79 in the Transcat catalog.
I'm sure there are cheaper ones available.

 

If you are using a digital meter go the manufacture's site. They will a temperature probe as a optional attachment.

 

I might be up for getting one of the infared thingys,, it seems it would be handy and great for checking welding lead connectors also. Probably great for panel connections too.

 

Artlamps,

If I could point out the obvious...
The book said "digital thermometer". Depending on what exact temperature range you are looking to measure, a dime store thing ought to work. My local supermarket sells a Good Cook brand digital for $11. You don't need to make a mountain out of a mole hill.

~Peter