Help with identification

[Epd230]

I found an electric hot plate at the local Goodwill. Does anyone know anything about this thing?

168180

168184

I assume that it was either originally for use in a scientific lab or a brewery, but I am just guessing.

It appears to have a thermocouple built in

168181

I think that figuring out the wiring should be pretty simple and I am planning on wiring it up to a digital controller.

168183

My big question is, what is this thing?

168182

It looks like a light bulb, but appears to contain a small puddle of mercury.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[HP9MM]

That is a mercury switch which will turn off the device's heat if it is not in a horizontal position, i.e. a safety device.

[Bent Ramrod]

It looks like the "heater" part of a cooking utensil. Like a Wok or something fit into the holder ring on top.

You might go back to Goodwill and look for the rest of it.

[Mike W1]

It looks like the "heater" part of a cooking utensil. Like a Wok or something fit into the holder ring on top.

You might go back to Goodwill and look for the rest of it.

Don't think that is a hot plate either. Definitely something missing on the top side.

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

it seems real weird that there is no labels...and no UL listed label?

[runfiverun]

that is for sure a mercury switch.

the thermo-couple right on top of the heating element is odd.
as is the two elements instead of one continuous one.

[Cowboy_Dan]

it seems real weird that there is no labels...and no UL listed label?

Something about the construction of this says homemade to me, can't quite put my finger on it, but I would have a fire extinguisher handy when testing it.

[Epd230]

Something about the construction of this says homemade to me, can't quite put my finger on it, but I would have a fire extinguisher handy when testing it.

Lol! Sounds like good advice.