A new technique to measure dynamically the surface tension, viscosity and density of molten metals

A formulation is presented that enables the physical properties of melts to be measured using a new dynamic measuring technique. The surface tension, viscosity, and density are inherently part of an energy balance that characterizes flow rate through an orifice, subjected to the influence of gravity. The properties are determined from this relationship, which requires flow rate and head data, as well as knowledge of the frictional characteristics of the orifice. Experiments with molten aluminum in both argon and nitrogen atmospheres are presented at various temperatures and compared with literature. Results from AZ91D-alloy in argon are presented for the purpose of expanding the current knowledge of properties of magnesium-based systems. Experimental density measurements for aluminum and AZ91D agree well with relations established in the literature.