Project details
Category: Remote Handling
Status: Complete
Client:
National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL)
For more information:
Aims and Objectives
There were two main aims in designing a new gamma scanner sample handling rig. Firstly, to integrate the detector system at the cave face without impeding operation of Master Slave Manipulators or other cave face operations. The second was to eliminate background noise from the high dose cave inventory.
About the client
The National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) operates a number of facilities offering research, development and consultancy services to the nuclear industry. At the Sellafield site, the NNL Windscale Laboratory operates a range of radiation shielded facilities where nuclear materials are processed and examined. Services include Post Irradiation Examination (PIE) of nuclear fuel and irradiated material, radioactive waste handling and material analysis and testing.
Project Overview
The scope of work for Aquila, included a site survey, scheme design, detailed design, manufacture, testing and delivery of a Sample Handling Rig and Control System which integrates with the NNL designed, gamma scanner service plug.
During scheme and detail design, areas addressed which were fundamental to the operational functionality of the system included
- Articulation requirement for XY and Z movement
- Component loading in cell
- Accommodate a range of component sizes and weights
- Clamping arrangements for use with Master Slave Manipulators
- Posting in/out cell arrangements
- Drive motor selection for XY and Z movement together with methodology for replacement
Summary
During the tender process Aquila designed a system in 3D solid works to meet the functional specification. This not only allowed us to de-risk the design from a functional aspect but also enabled accurate estimating so that we could provide a fixed price solution.
