Mercury Corrosion Loop Testing Program

The Mercury Corrosion Loop Testing Program continued through the
second quarter. Materials to be tested in the 10 forced-convection test loops were selected; the materials are: Haynes 25, 9 Cr-1Mo alloy clad
with Type 316 stainless steel, AM 350 stainless steel, and columbium
(niobium) clad with Type 316 stainless steel. The eight-test-cell facility was completed and all utilities were installed. Pneumatic and electronic instrumentation for all test cells was installed and calibrated. Fabrication was initiated on the first four Haynes 25 loops. The first loop was 85% assembled at the end of the quarter. A centrifugal pump made from Type 316 stainless steel was tested; bearing modifications were made to improve operation.