I have noticed from time to time that, although sand baths have many virtues, not too may people use them because of 'the time they take to heat up'
Its found steam can "convect" heat Through and TO All the sand particle Very quickly i.e
Heat 5-10cm sand baths rapidly by allowing a small amout of water to boil in the bottom of the container
The steam will travel quickly through the sand and heat it to at least 80c surface temp in several minutes---the same applies to evenly heating plates--put a teaspoon of water on a hotplate hot enough to make the water boil and 'ride' on it's own steam, then put your plate upon it--AS LONG AS the plate ISNT REALLY COLD <10c and is sturdy,thermal shock should not be a problem- it will take about 30 seconds to reach 90+c allover through the steam convecting the heat to where its wanted
Hope this helps someone Hyppy
Its found steam can "convect" heat Through and TO All the sand particle Very quickly i.e
Heat 5-10cm sand baths rapidly by allowing a small amout of water to boil in the bottom of the container
The steam will travel quickly through the sand and heat it to at least 80c surface temp in several minutes---the same applies to evenly heating plates--put a teaspoon of water on a hotplate hot enough to make the water boil and 'ride' on it's own steam, then put your plate upon it--AS LONG AS the plate ISNT REALLY COLD <10c and is sturdy,thermal shock should not be a problem- it will take about 30 seconds to reach 90+c allover through the steam convecting the heat to where its wanted
Hope this helps someone Hyppy