Mar 13 Hot Cell – we are testing mechanical arms

The preparations for the next major decommissioning project are underway.

WWe are currently testing mechanical arms designed for cleaning the Hot Cells. This is being conducted using a so-called mockup, i.e., a 1:1 scale model, where we are testing the reach of the vacuum arm and later the sandblasting arm. Dummy testing is an integral part of our preparations, allowing us to evaluate methods and rectify any potential weaknesses.

The Hot Cells comprised a series of cells where experiments were conducted, including with irradiated experimental fuel. They are heavily contaminated with radioactive substances, and the radiation level is so high that it is challenging to send personnel into the cells to perform grinding and cleaning. The decontamination must therefore be carried out using mechanical arms, which are inserted into the cells through openings in the 1.7-meter-thick concrete walls. Inside the cells, all surfaces will be sandblasted, and subsequently, contaminated paint flakes and sand will be extracted into a dedicated ventilation system.

We are currently testing the suction arm, which is designed to reach all corners. As the operator cannot, in principle, see what is happening on the other side of the wall, a camera will be mounted on the arm. Furthermore, a dome camera will be inserted with a lance at ceiling height, enabling comprehensive monitoring of the entire cell.

The work on the Hot Cells will be the next major decommissioning project following the decontamination of the Fuel fabrication plant. Concurrently, we are in the process of decommissioning DR3, which was Denmark's largest research reactor.