The measurement of the viscosity of a molten metal by means of an oscillating disc

Abstract

Experiments have been made on the viscosity of molten tin by the use of an oscillating disc. The theory of the method has been investigated, and it has been found necessary to calibrate the apparatus on molten metals having viscosities and densities not too different from those of the metals which are to be investigated. In the case of tin, the values of the viscosity at different temperatures have been determined by Sauerwald and Töpler by the capillary-tube method, and the present experiments have lengthened the range of temperature for which the viscosity of tin may be regarded as fairly well established. Discontinuity in the (viscosity, temperature) curve of molten tin at temperatures near its freezing point must be regarded as very improbable, and certainly does not occur at temperatures more than 6° C. above that point.