1.1This guide describes the essential features of fixed-point cells and auxiliary apparatus, and the techniques required to realize fixed points in the temperature range from 29 °C to 1085 °C.3

1.2Design and construction requirements of fixed-point cells are not addressed in this guide. Typical examples are given in Figs. 1 and 2.

FIG. 1Examples of Fixed-Point Cells

FIG. 2Example of Fixed-Point Furnace

Note 1:This example shows an insulated furnace body and two alternative types of furnace cores. The core on the left is a three-zone shielded type. The core on the right employs a heat pipe to reduce temperature gradients.

1.3This guide is intended to describe good practice and establish uniform procedures for the realization of fixed points.

1.4This guide emphasizes principles. The emphasis on principles is intended to aid the user in evaluating cells, in improving technique for using cells, and in establishing procedures for specific applications.

1.5For the purposes of this guide, the use of fixed-point cells for the accurate calibration of thermometers is restricted to immersion-type thermometers that, when inserted into the reentrant well of the cell, (1) indicate the temperature only of the isothermal region of the well, and (2) do not significantly alter the temperature of the isothermal region of the well by heat transfer.

1.6This guide does not address all of the details of thermometer calibration.

1.7This guide is intended to complement special operating instructions supplied by manufacturers of fixed-point apparatus.

1.8The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.9The following hazard caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 7, of this guide. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.10This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.