Repeatability and Refinement of a Transient Hot-Wire Instrument for Measuring the Thermal Conductivity of High-Temperature Melts

The paper reports an assessment of the repeatability of a method for the measurement of the thermal conductivity of high temperature melts. The main goal is to demonstrate that a novel approach to the transient hotwire technique can yield highly accurate results that are consistent with previous, independent measurements. The paper summarizes the modified transient hot-wire method, presents improvements in the finite-element analysis of its operation, and briefly discusses deviations from available analytical equations. The transient hot-wire instrument and experimental configuration are also described. Results from measurements on molten metals, in particular, tin and indium, in the temperature range from their melting points up to 750K are preseInted. A comparison with previously measured values is given, and the accuracy and repeatability of the method are discussed.