What temp would the rheostat get and where do you get the wire coil?
Temperatures are determined by the amount of current applied, thus they're variable :) Nickel-chromium wire is an item of commerce, since there are only a few suppliers left, Post 13988 (missing)
(Rhodium: "It is forbidden to post sources in this forum!", Chemicals & Equipment) applies. Industrial suppliers can bee helpful. Become a toaster repairman, and start asking questions at electrical suppliers, some still have them hanging on the walls :) SWIL just buys the wire wholesale and winds his own coils :) Large scientific suppliers also carry nichrome wire :)