Measurement of the density of liquid aluminum alloys by an x-ray attentuation technique

These liquid alloy density measurements are made with a relatively simple apparatus containing almsot no custom parts. Using these results, we can predict the solidification shrinkage of pure aluminum and aluminum alloy-319 to improve the accuracy of casting simulations. Although the precision of the measurements could be improved with modifications to the equipment, this simple setup is adequate for measuring Al alloy densities in the liquid. In addition, the low-intensity radiation source allows the experiment to be conducted with no special radiation shielding.