07.05.2012 15:54

Posiva uses a prototype to gather information about installation of final disposal canisters

In early 2013, Olkiluoto will get a device which is the first of its kind in the world. With the prototype of the transfer and installation device of final disposal canisters, Posiva will be able to test the functionality of the canister installation plans in actual conditions.

Design Manager Petteri Vuorio at Posiva, what information will Posiva compile using the new device?
"We will compile information concerning the device movement speed and the threshold values of different actions in the final disposal tunnel. We also need to know whether the installation tolerance values of the final disposal canisters can be achieved in practice. The prototype will provide us with additional information for manufacturing the final transfer and installation device and with experiences related to the quality assurance procedures of manufacturing."

How big is the prototype?
"It will be about 11 metres long, 3.4 metres high and 3 metres wide. It weighs about a hundred tonnes. The device manufacturer is the Pori unit of Hollming Works Oy.”

Design Manager Petteri Vuorio
KSAA asen. 19.1.-12
Protptype device installing canister

Is there a model for the device anywhere?
"Swedish nuclear waste maintenance management service providers have previously designed an installation device catering to their needs, but the device to be built for us will be unique, tailored to our needs."

What requirements are there for the functionality of the transfer and installation device's prototype?
"It must be optimally small so that we don't have to alter the intended size of the final disposal tunnels. On the other hand, the dimensions of the final disposal canister limit the minimum size of the device.
The device design must also account for the fact that the actual final disposal canisters will radiate to a great extent upon installation. Therefore, the installation device must have remote functions - such as cameras in suitable locations - which make for easier final disposal One must also keep in mind that this is a nuclear technology device subject to higher than usual manufacturing quality requirements and the documentation during building is more detailed than usual."

What is the schedule?
"If the device manufacturer is able to perform factory testing at the beginning of 2013, the handover to Posiva could be in early 2013. This means that the prototype could be used in tunnel conditions in summer 2013."

KSAA kulj. 19.1.-12

Prototype device transferring canister


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