Challenge: To accurately grind alumina spacers used in nuclear power plant control rods. The length of the components are extremely critical to the efficiency of the fuel rod. The components need to be processed at a high rate and length verified for all parts.
Solution
A DD-7 double disc grinder was configured with 0.1 micron closed loop spindle slides mounted on a solid granite machine bed for stability. A bowl feeder feeds the components to a conveyor which loads and clamp on a fixture mounted on a precision slide. The part is moved between the grinding wheels to qualify the length. As the part is removed from the grinding wheel two probes measure the length of the part and compensate size as the part is ejected onto an exit conveyor.
