An improved method for measuring temperatures during range fires

Abstract

A technique for recording time-temperature curves within field-scale range fires was accomplished using a commercially available data logger capable of rapidly reading large numbers of thermocouples. A specially designed fireproof box was utilized to house and protect the data logger within the center of the burned area. Programming features allowed temperatures to be measured and recorded rapidly (each second) during the passage of the fire front and recorded as 1-minute means before and after the combustion interval. Strategic placement of thermocouples provided time-temperature profiles for various heights above ground, rate of spread, and duration of heat above specific temperatures. Additionally, measurement of preheating prior to the actual flame passage was obtained by placement of the recorder and thermocouples well within the burned area. This technique may provide better quantification of fire effects on vegetation, especially woody weeds targeted for control with fire, by documenting temperature extremes and their duration at critical growing points on plants.