Cask Processing Enclosure Specification/Operation - 12231

Abstract

Following an evaluation of throughput rates in the Hot Cell at the Transuranic Waste Processing Center and considering the variability in the waste with respect to actual dose rates a new approach to processing transuranic waste was necessary. Compounding the issue was the remote equipment poor reliability and high down-time. After considering all the factors, the evaluation resulted in the design and construction of a new waste processing area for handling the concrete casks that predominately contain contact handled transuranic (TRU) waste. The area is called the Cask Processing Enclosure and essentially the Cask Processing Enclosure mimics the projects current process techniques used for processing Contact Handled -TRU waste in the existing Box Breakdown Area and Glovebox. The Cask Processing Enclosure approach was developed based on a review of the RH processing throughput rates in the Hot Cell. As the process was reviewed consideration was given to the variability in the waste with respect to actual dose rates and the lack of equipment reliability and high wear in the Hot Cell. Based on that review, a new contact handled processing area for handling the concrete casks is being constructed and startup is expected shortly following WM2012. The Cask Processing Enclosure essentially mimics the projects current process techniques used for processing Contact Handled waste in the existing Box Breakdown Area and Glovebox and the design takes into consideration six years of operational experience. (authors)