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By: Rahul N. Katre, Gopal H. Waghmare, and P.D. Kamble
1 Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering, Nagpur,
Maharashtra, India
2 Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering, Nagpur,
Maharashtra, India
3 Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering, Nagpur,
Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Precision machining of sector plates plays a vital role in the efficient functioning of Air Pre-Heaters
(APH), which are integral components of thermal power plants. These plates are subjected to harsh
thermal cycles and mechanical loads, making dimensional accuracy critical. For optimal heat
exchange performance and mechanical reliability, it is essential to maintain tight manufacturing
tolerances – flatness within ±400 microns and thickness up to 13 mm. Deviation from these
parameters can lead to air leakage, reduced heat transfer efficiency, assembly misalignment, and
ultimately, mechanical failure. This project investigates the integration of advanced sensor
technologies with a Special Purpose Gantry Milling Machine (SPGMM) aimed at enhancing
precision and control during the machining of sector plates. Traditional machining setups often fall
short in consistently achieving required tolerances due to tool wear, thermal distortion, and limited
real-time feedback. In contrast, sensor-integrated systems enable continuous monitoring of critical
parameters, such as cutting force, vibration, tool temperature, and spindle displacement. The control
system receives real-time feedback from these measurements, enabling dynamic machining parameter
change. The system developed in this study incorporates eddy current displacement sensors,
particularly the SGS4701, to monitor thermal growth of the spindle and compensate for it in realtime.
Additionally, machine learning algorithms are embedded within the control architecture to
support predictive analytics, thereby optimizing cutting conditions and extending tool life. The
integration of these smart technologies enables adaptive machining – a transformative shift from
traditional fixed-parameter machining strategies. Experimental validation demonstrates that the
proposed methodology significantly improves surface flatness and maintains thickness within
acceptable limits, while also reducing material wastage and machining time. Setup time was reduced
by 40%, and throughput increased by approximately 20% without compromising quality. Moreover,
no rejections were recorded in the test samples post-integration, emphasizing the reliability of the
enhanced system. This study serves as a foundational framework for further advancements in sensorbased CNC machining and provides actionable insights into how traditional machines can be
retrofitted for modern, high-precision, and intelligent manufacturing applications.
Keywords: Sensors, Gantry Milling, sector plate machining, air pre-heaters, precision machining, ai
integration, predictive maintenance, adaptive control, process automation, industrial efficiency.
Citation:
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