Automated thickness measurement system for nuclear fuel plates: A metrological study

Abstract

Thickness measurements of nuclear fuel plates manufactured at the Nuclear Fuel Center of the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN-CNEN/SP) are currently performed using manual external U-shaped frame micrometers with non-rotating spindles and beveled measurement anvils. Results are then manually recorded on dedicated forms. To improve the efficiency and the metrological reliability of the process, a novel thickness measurement system for nuclear fuel plates was developed. This work presents a comprehensive metrological study of the newly designed measurement system, achieved through the construction of a new apparatus with automated mechanisms for synchronized movement, data capture, transcription, and processing. The study results demonstrate the metrological adequacy of the developed system and underscore the importance of the design and structural quality of the measurement equipment. Consequently, the metrological reliability of the results in the dimensional control of nuclear fuel plates is confirmed.