Sensor
Applications
Controlink Systems, LLC has
integrated instrumentation (piezoelectric crystals,
acoustic emission sensors, accelerometers,
temperature sensors, strain gages, capacitence
probes, encoders, conductivity, pH, etc.) into many
different types of machining and grinding systems.
We collect the information in
"real-time" and can assess overall process
quality during the cut. We have designed systems to
measure cutting forces (orthogonal components and
torque/thrust) and to assess cutting tool and cutting
fluids quality and performance.
Controlink Systems, LLC has
also provided engineering leadership to instrument
several grinding machines at the Machining
and Inspection Research User Center at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The
instrumented grinding machines are used by
researchers around the country to conduct ceramic
grinding research.
Integrating instrumentation
into different machining systems can be tricky
business. The machining environment is, by its
nature, quite hazardous with many sharp edges and
splashing fluids. Our experience with instrumentation
and machining helps to overcome these difficulties.