Slotted Annular Source

This annular dummy source, at least I assume that it is a dummy source, is 7/16" long and 3/16" in diameter. A slot runs completely down one side. Sources like this were usually loaded with Cs-137 and sometimes Sr-90. The internal cavity would be so small that it could only hold a fraction of a curie. Not many of these were made.

The catch is that sources are often of a nondescript construction and easily confused with everyday objects. In this case, the "source" looks a great deal like a common roll pin.

Slotted Annular Source
Slotted Annular Source

An XRF analysis reveals that the main constituents are iron and chromium.

Reference

  • Karl Haff, personal communication. At different times, Haff headed up ORNL's Source Safety Testing Program and their Radiochemical Processing Program.
  • Tom Dowling, personal communication.