The effect of a magnetic field on the rheodynamic behavior of ferromagnetic suspensions

In this work a simplified analytical model and the results of an experimental investigation of the influence of an external magnetic field on the rheological characteristics of a suspension of iron particles in silicon oil is presented. The particles of iron were approximately of a circular shape, from 3 to 5 μm, with a maximum concentration of 10¹⁰ particles/cm³. The viscosity of the carrying fluid varied from 80 to 240 cP.The experimental channel was located in a closed circuit of forced circulation of the ferromagnetic suspension. The entire length of 750 mm was placed in an area of a homogeneous magnetic field, with the velocity vector of the suspension being perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field. The strength of the magnetic field could be changed continually from 0 to 9000 G.The results obtained are shown in the form of parametrical dependencies of the rheological characteristics of the ferromagnetic suspension. With that, the concentration of the solid phase of the suspension is parametrically changed, along with the strength of the external magnetic field and the viscosity of the carrying fluid.In the range of parameters studied, the external magnetic field leads to a Bingham character of behavior of the ferromagnetic suspension.