Abstract
The paper is a comprehensive design study and describes a method for decommissioning the Windscale advanced gas-cooled reactor (WAGR) pressure vessel and insulation. The design of equipment to carry out the required operations is also given. The structure of the pressure vessel and insulation and its residual activity are described and assessment criteria are proposed to judge the suitability of possible decommissioning methods. Various ideas are then considered and compared using the assessment criteria. The most promising solution is developed and general arrangement drawings of equipment are given. A reserve method, using different technology, is identified in case the first method fails due to unforeseen circumstances. The method has been adopted for development in the WAGR decommissioning programme.
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