A system for decommissioning reactor vessel internals

Disassembly and disposal of large, highly contaminated and activated components such as reactor vessel internals, require special methods and equipment to minimize worker exposure and limit the spread of contamination. This paper describes a system for segmenting and packaging reactor vessel internals remotely underwater. The system utilizes three-dimensional modeling of the workspace and tooling to optimize the segmentation plan for waste-packaging efficiency. All operations, except rigging, are performed remotely to limit both personnel exposure and costs associated with access to a high dose, contaminated area. Selection criteria for a cutting technology are given, and applied to commercially available techniques. Innovations and modifications required to adapt the commercial technology to the application are also described. In addition, methods for waste capture, minimization, and disposal are presented.