Sample auto-loader for use with an analytical combustion furnace

摘要

An apparatus for moving a series of boats loaded with samples into one end of a furnace, testing each sample by heating it to the point where the gases to be analyzed are released and discarding the boat with the remaining ashes, while maintaining the sample and the gasses emitted by the sample free from atmospheric contamination in the furnace. The sample is initially positioned in the furnace by use of a pushing mechanism in the form of a rod driven by a step motor. The boat remain in position after the gasses are driven from the sample, until another sample is introduced. The boat with the new sample pushes the boat with the ashes of the previous sample towards a means for automatic extraction of the boat from the furnace.