Needs assessment for remote systems technology at the Chornobyl Unit 4 shelter

Abstract

Class I remote systems (payload = 10 to 100 kg): small systems that are agile and light, used primarily for diagnostic, sampling, inspection, and sensor placement missions within the Shelter. Class 11 remote systems (payload = 100 to 1,000 kg): medium-sized systems that are able to perform material handling and manipulation associated with work tasks like debris and shielding handling. Class I l I remote systems (payload = 1,000+ kg): major machines required to perform full-scale building structure construction ind deconstruction activities and large-volume debris removal operations within the Shelter. Recommended Actions Use a step-wise approach to implement remote systems starting with simple and robust technologies applied in easily accessible areas where operations can be tested. Develop detailed system functional and technical requirements to reduce costs for system development and acquisition. Consider sponsoring a technical working goup to define fundamental remote systems requirements necessary to perform the remote tasks'identified in this document. Thoroughly investigate available remote technology, for example, alternatives to vehicles for accessing hard-to-reach areas. Initiate early remote systems projects focusing on high-priority needs, like diagnostic systems for structural assessments and environmental characterizations. Establish integated project management for coordination of remote systems initiatives. Consider creating a supporting consulting board of independent experts to assist in implementation of projects requiring remote systems. Establish a remote systems technology facility for equipment testing, operator training, and operations support. Plan for supporting infrastructure, maintenance facilities, and staff training. V Conclusions There is no question that remote technology can be deployed in a reliable manner that reduces worker radiation exposure in a wide range of tasks. This assessment confirms the need for remote.systems technologies, including robotics, to support day-today operations in the Shelter and implementation of both short-and long-term stabilization and remediation tasks defined in the Shelter Implementation Plan. Remote systems can play a role in significantly reducing the dose uptake to personnel working in the Shelter and provide the capability to perform work not previously possible due to the hazard levels.

Prospects of Xenon Gamma Spectrometer Application as a Recording Device on Board of an Automated and Robotic Gamma-Ray Spectrometric Complex for the Decommissioning of Nuclear Physical Installations

“…При анализе последствий разрушения четвертого блока Чернобыльской АЭС на основании состояния рассматриваемых объектов был составлен план ремонта и проведена оценка потребностей в потенциально полезных роботизированных системах [3] . Работы, как правило, классифицировались как характеризация материалов, имеющих радиоактивное загрязнение, земляные работы, демонтаж оборудования с помощью манипуляторов .…”