Reliability of the Temperature-Flow-Corrosion Unit in Antifreeze Studies

摘要

The purpose of the investigation was to determine the reliability of the Temperature-Flow-Corrosion Unit (TFCU) in obtaining heat transfer data and corrosion data on antifreeze compounds. Test conducted in this study employed antifreeze meeting Federal Specification 0-A-548a with added Federal Specification 0-1-490a inhibitor. Quantitative metal ion concentration was determined by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Oscillographic scanning of the wave forms produced by the electronic power unit under load indicate a fallacy in the volt meter and ammeter scale readings. The results show that the use of the TFCU for heat transfer properties of antifreeze compounds is not feasible due to the fact that they do not necessarily correlate with results produced in an automotive cooling system. The results also indicate that a loss in thermal conductivity resulting from corrosion product deposition on a metal surface can be overshadowed by the effect of increased surface roughness on fluid turbulence. Resultant heat transfer rates can increase as the corrosion products are deposited. (Author)