Inventors:
Robert R. Heim - Brighton CO, US
Scott Ryan Adams - Longmont CO, US
Matthew Denver Cole - Fort Collins CO, US
William E. Kirby - Superior CO, US
Paul Damon Linnebur - Milliken CO, US
Assignee:
Special Applications Technology, Inc. - Loveland CO
International Classification:
G21C 19/00
Abstract:
Systems and methods for dismantling a nuclear reactor are described. In one aspect the system includes a remotely controlled heavy manipulator (“manipulator”) operatively coupled to a support structure, and a control station in a non-contaminated portion of a workspace. The support structure provides the manipulator with top down access into a bioshield of a nuclear reactor. At least one computing device in the control station provides remote control to perform operations including: (a) dismantling, using the manipulator, a graphite moderator, concrete walls, and a ceiling of the bioshield, the manipulator being provided with automated access to all internal portions of the bioshield; (b) loading, using the manipulator, contaminated graphite blocks from the graphite core and other components from the bioshield into one or more waste containers; and (c) dispersing, using the manipulator, dust suppression and contamination fixing spray to contaminated matter.