Solid Waste Processing Center Primary Opening Cells Systems, Equipment and Tools

Abstract

This document addresses the remote systems and design integration aspects of the development of the Solid Waste Processing Center (SWPC), a facility to remotely open, sort, size reduce, and repackage mixed low-level waste (MLLW) and transuranic (TRU)/TRU mixed waste that is either contact-handled (CH) waste in large containers or remote-handled (RH) waste in various-sized packages. The vast and varying waste stream that is anticipated to enter this facility makes this an extremely complex challenge. In addition to the issues associated with handling RH-TRU waste, the SWPC will encounter containers sized anywhere from 1 gallon cans to 20ft x 13ft x 11ft boxes. The waste containers can be as heavy as 83,000 pounds, and the radiation levels can be as high as 20,000 R/hr at the container surface. Another aspect that makes this project complex is the remote environment, where tasks are inherently more difficult. Seemingly easy everyday tasks can be quite problematic or impossible to achieve remotely. Operator vision is limited to two dimensions (no depth of field), audio feedback is limited to what microphones and noise canceling technology can provide, and the sense of physically feeling motions or forces is absent without extensive sensor technology. It is critical that the project not underestimate the challenges of developing this facility. Key aspects in effectively succeeding at this effort and controlling costs include: Clearly defining scope and requirements with the involvement of users and stakeholders. Understanding the need for process design and tool flexibility to counteract the extensive uncertainties that will be encountered. Completing thorough design integration efforts up front. Paying significant attention to tool development, testing and validation for all process tasks. Commercial off-the-shelf tools are not designed for remote deployment and operation and will require adaptation. Being cognizant of the human-machine interface complexities associated with the deployment of numerous remote systems in one space. Utilizing discrete event simulation to focus on the logical structure of the facility and the movement of material through it. Understanding maintenance requirements. Evaluating the risk and consequences of equipment failures. Establishing and maintaining a cold mock up for testing, operator training, and operational task planning prior to and during operation of plant. Establishing a relationship with Labor for the development of the SWPC's own specialist operators to perform all remote tasks and maintenance.