METHOD AND DEVICE FOR RECANISTERING AND FLAW DETECTION OF RADIATION-EXPOSED FUEL ASSEMBLIES IN DEFECTIVE CANISTERS Russian patent published in 2009 - IPC G21F5/00 G21C19/32 

FIELD: nuclear physics.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to atomic power engineering, particularly to methods of handling spent nuclear fuel (SNF), and can be used in replacing defective canisters of radiation-exposed (spent) fuel assemblies (REFA), stored in dry storages of spent nuclear fuel above the ground. Flaw detection (control) of radiation-exposed fuel assemblies, which allows for assessing their state, is done on objective indicators - values of pulling forces of radiation-exposed fuel assemblies from defective canisters. Values of these forces were chosen empirically and then confirmed experimentally. Further, the technical outcome is achieved due to localisation of the recanistering section and flaw detection of the radiation-exposed fuel assemblies in the storage using a device for additional radiation protective covering the recanistering working area. Surface contamination of the storage with radioactive substances and release of radionuclides from the storage is reduced, as well as the dose of gamma-radiation absorbed by service personnel due to cutting on time the radiation-exposed fuel assemblies spend outside the canister and prevention of spillage of spent nuclear fuel, and, consequently, radiation and environmental safety is increased when reloading (recanistering) radiation-exposed fuel assemblies into conditioning canisters.

EFFECT: increased reliability and safety of transporting and further treatment of radiation-exposed fuel assemblies on processing plants.

6 cl, 12 dwg