Wear Measurement and Chip Detection of a Moving Shear Blade using Fluid Proximity Sensors

The results of an experimental investigation in the use of conical-jet proximity sensors for chip detection and wear measurement on a moving shear blade are presented. The proposed scheme is to position, transverse to the movement of the shear blade, a vertical array of proximity sensors whose output as the shear blade moves past, along with the position of the shear blade, yield a profile of the shear blade. Comparison of this profile with a sharp, unchipped blade profile stored in computer memory yields wear measurement and chip detection information. Experimental data are presented on the effects of various parameters on the shear blade profile such as shear blade speed and direction, sensor supply pressure, and lateral transverse gap between the sensor and the shear blade. The results Indicate that the measurement system may be used to measure wear and detect chip formation.