A novel automated thickness measurement method and device for nuclear fuel plates

Abstract

The Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN-CNEN/SP) currently employs manual external u-shape frame micrometers with non-rotating spindles, and chamfered measuring anvils at 21 pre-defined points to control the thickness of its fuel plates. However, it is acknowledged that this method introduces the human element into the measurement process, potentially compromising result accuracy and the integrity of the fuel plates' surfaces. This research introduces a novel thickness measurement method and an accompanying automated device featuring precise movement mechanisms, data capture, transcription, and processing. Our findings emphasize the effectiveness of this new measurement system and the structural integrity of the equipment, highlighting its potential to significantly enhance both the speed and metrological reliability of dimensional control processes for nuclear fuel plates manufactured at IPEN-CNEN/SP.