410/511: Honing Cooling Process (Multidisciplinary Team)

In response to the need for a cooling procedure for shaft bearing assemblies following the honing process, we developed a solution that meets production rate and supports customer demand. Our primary objective was to identify and develop a creative cooling approach for shaft bearings during the assembly phase. We developed useful solutions, leading to creating mechanical designs and a refined control plan. 

We designed a conveyor belt, a key step forward in the study of cooling and production of bearings. After refining the bearings by honing and heating them to a temperature of three hundred degrees Celsius using an induction furnace, a machinist places them onto the conveyor belt. In the cell are three conveyor belts rotating the bearings around. The belts are laid out in a U-shape to maximize space and ensure the bearings return to the operator. 

A bumper guides the bearings as they transfer onto each belt. Motor driven fans will be installed above each conveyor belt. They will evenly spread direct airflow, reducing the time needed for the bearings to cool down. This consistent cooling is important for preserving the bearings’ reliability and functionality for assembly. The belts will run at a specific speed to give the bearings enough time to cool to a predetermined temperature. Once the bearings reach the desired temperature. They gently transfer from the conveyor belt onto a ball bearing transfer table. This table organizes the bearings based on their completion order. This automated method improves efficiency and reduces the risk of disorder. This method of organization simplifies the workflow. It promotes the retrieval and further processing of bearings. Proper incorporation of this method ensures a productive, organized, and improved cooling for shaft bearings.