Characterization of eutectic In-Bi-Sn alloy (Field’s metal) for use in single and two-phase liquid metal flow in natural circulation systems

Abstract

An In-Bi-Sn eutectic alloy was characterized for the purpose of liquid metal natural circulation experiments. The alloy was chosen to reduce the power requirement and enhance the safety of these types of experiments. The initial characterization included the development of a method of fabrication, an investigation of the chemical compatibility with air, water, borosilicate glass, and stainless steel. An investigation to experimentally determine the thermo-physical properties (viscosity, density, specific heat capacity, and thermal conductivity) of the liquid metal was performed. A numerical model of the natural circulation loop was developed and compared to experimental results of a liquid metal natural circulation experiment.