Inventors:
Peter T. Tuite - Cortlandt Manor NY
Kevin T. Tuite - Cornwall NY
Albert A. Freitag - Washingtonville NY
International Classification:
G21F 900
US Classification:
588 16, 2505061, 588 2, 588 3, 588 4, 588 15, 588249, 588252
Abstract:
Method and apparatus for containing, transporting, and storing or disposing of radioactive machinery, including decommissioned nuclear reactor pressure vessels. An improved, economically-produced container is provided which allows easier handling and packaging of machinery within plants where the machinery has been installed, and which provides improved shock absorption and attenuation characteristics, especially when packaging is complete. A reactor pressure vessel or similar item is disconnected from the remainder of the plant and external fittings are trimmed as close to flush with items exterior as practicable. A storage and containment canister, optionally cut into at least two sections to ease handling and packaging, is placed nearby. The pressure vessel head or any other low-radioactive items are removed, and insulation and other items removed from the outside of the item are placed inside the items body. The item body is placed into a lower section of the canister and sealed, and detached canister sections are reattached.