Jason,
Now that looks a good idea, just need to find a reasonably priced one than heats continuously.
Marv,
I know exactly how you feel. Unfortunately, nowhere in the UK any more allows you to display with naked flame, or are very reluctant to let you do so, so I am actually making some tiny bunsens for the ones that normally have a meths or candle, hoping that will satisfy them. I used to display a fair amount at one time, but there are just a couple of local ones I would like to try to attend in the future.
About the Peltier devices, good idea, will Stirlings work with cold on the bottom plate, and do low temp stirlings run when on their side or upside down, or would the friction be too much?
Dave,
I think they are the same as the vivarium heaters, just more expensive.
John