Electric current distribution means for a ceramic type of electrical resistance heater element

In combination with a monolithic refractory ceramic type of electrical resistance heater element where conductivity is imparted to the heat radiating surface thereof by the compositing of a semiconductive material, having a conductivity of from about 10.sup.-.sup.8 to about 10.sup.2 inverse ohm-centimeters the improved electric current distributing means for an element, which comprises, elongated slot openings along spaced opposing portions of said refractory element, and slidably insertable electrode members for said spaced openings to provide for electrical resistance heating across the width of the element, with each such electrode member having an outer covering of metal felt over a metal core member which is, in turn, provided with a terminal means for a current supplying lead wire, and with the external size and shape of the metal felt covering being such as to effect a slip fit into a spaced opening when there is no current flow, whereby upon electric current flow for heat producing operations there is an expansion of each of the electrode members to result in tight and efficient electrical contacts with the conductive surfaces of the element.