A new device for measurement of the thermal conductivity of fur and blubber

Abstract 1. 1. A new and simple device for measurements of thermal conductivity of fur and blubber is described. 2. 2. The device measures temperature differences across the sample and across a polyethylene plate with known conductivity which is placed in series with the sample. 3. 3. The conductivity of the polyethylene was determined from the steady state temperature difference and heat flux through the wall of a polyethylene pipe with a central heat source. 4. 4. The accuracy of the device is ±4.0%. 5. 5. The thermal conductivity of harp seal (Phoca groenlandica) and minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber, as determined by use of this device, is very close to previously reported values.

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