Brown and Sharpe 618 Micromaster (Slicing and Dicing)???

[mcbassin]

I have a chance to buy a Brown and Sharpe 618 Micromaster (Slicing and Dicing) surface grinder, or is it cutter?
I cannot find any info about this unit. I have used many 618 machines in the past but never the slicing and dicing model.
I'm wondering if it can be converted to a regular surface grinding machine? Has anyone ever heard of these?
And finally, Does anyone know if the spindle RPM is the same as regular grinder?
thanks,

 

[stephen thomas]

Slicer-dicers as a factory mod on conventional surface grinders, were used in the early years of silicon wafers. Cutting the chunk of crystal ("boule") grown synthetically, into slices for electronic applications.

I do not know if they can be modified, but can't imagine why not. I don't think much was changed except a means for fine control of the wafer thickness and perhaps some slow speed circuits in the hydraulics.

smt

 

[adama]

Would look at the spindle carefully it may well be non std, most silicone - wafer cutting is done with smaller diamond high speed blades than your tyical 7" wheel which is more or less the 6x18" grinder std.

I would also be careful of any remaining residue from the previous use, some wafers are highly toxic!

If thats the machine in question it looks like it had a pretty easy life unless its been well repainted. hence may have very little in the way of wear?