Radiographic rolling ball viscometer

A falling-ball viscometer proof-of-concept prototype was used to evaluate a known fluid, water, at multiple temperatures. Our technique uses radiography as the as the means of observation of the ball falling through a fluid to enable measurements with highly reactive molten salts in the next phase. Multiple molten salts will be characterized for viscosity as a function of temperature to enable proper design of molten salt reactor components and flow systems. The x-ray digital radiography system developed here provides the means to measure velocities of a falling ball through a fluid with great precision while the entire fluid system is held inside a high temperature oven. This measured velocity is then used in a series of force balances to calculate the Reynolds number and ultimately viscosity of the fluid/temperature combination. The methods, system, and data discussed in this summary will be presented as well as experimental results from additional system refinements.