Calculating Lifting Mechanism for Radioactive Fuel Element Removal Machine

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of a lifting mechanism for a machine intended to remove radioactive fuel elements contained in aluminum cylinders. Participants explore various mechanical aspects of the design, including potential lifting devices and safety considerations related to the radioactive nature of the materials involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant outlines the problem, specifying the dimensions of the working area and the mass of the cylinders, and asks for calculations relevant to selecting a lifting mechanism.
  • Another participant suggests using an electromagnet for lifting, but this is challenged due to the non-magnetic nature of aluminum.
  • A participant notes that aluminum is considered non-magnetic but is technically paramagnetic, which leads to further discussion about the suitability of electromagnets.
  • Concerns are raised about the radioactive nature of the cylinders and the implications for the robot's operation and potential contamination.
  • One participant introduces the idea of linking the lifting mechanism's control with reactivity protection and monitoring, emphasizing the need for safety in handling fissionable materials.
  • Another participant mentions the importance of decay heat removal and strain limiting in the design, referencing the SL-1 accident as a cautionary example.
  • A separate inquiry about non-uniform beam design is introduced, shifting the focus slightly to methods for calculating dimensions in a different context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of using electromagnets for lifting aluminum cylinders, with some asserting that it is not applicable. There is also a consensus on the need for safety considerations related to the radioactive nature of the materials, but specific methods and calculations remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various safety concerns and technical requirements, but the discussion does not resolve the specific calculations or design methods needed for the lifting mechanism. The implications of the radioactive nature of the cylinders and the operational constraints of the robot are also highlighted but not fully explored.

netgear87
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
hello i am new to this forum..i have been set a problem whereby i am asked to design a machine to remove radioactive fuel elements which are contained in cylinders. i am asked to only look at the mechanical aspects (lifting device) of the design. Density and measurements were given and mass of each cyclinder was calculated at 70kg. The machine will be controlled remotely and vision systems can be used. For mobility, i have been looking into radio controlled bomb disposal vehicles and for the lifting devices research has been done on hoist, cranes, telescopic arm, robotic arm etc.

The problem section is 4m long and 0.7m wide. The channel is 2.5m deep and full of water and some sludge.The headroom above the floor is only 2m and access is from one side (see sketch).

My questions is, what are some of the possible calcuations one can do when designing/selecting an appropriate lifiting mechanism?
 

Attachments

  • CCF02022010_00000.jpg
    CCF02022010_00000.jpg
    26.8 KB · Views: 611
Engineering news on Phys.org
How about an electromagnet?
 
oops i forgot to mention that the cylinders are aluminium and hence non magnetic.:approve:
 
Electromagnets work on aluminum too :P.
 
are the cylinders radioactive?
is the robot ever to come out of the hot area if it breaks?

dr
 
Aluminium is a paramagnetic material and is said to be 'non-magnetic'.
It is assumed that the robot is for 'one time' use only as it will be contaminated after retriving the cylinders.
 
netgear87 said:
My questions is, what are some of the possible calcuations one can do when designing/selecting an appropriate lifiting mechanism?
Reactivity control and reactivity rate control. As fissionable material is moved, temperature changed, moderator changed, its proximity to criticality must be monitored and controlled. Conceptually, link the lifting mechanism control with reactivity protection and analysis.
 
Oh yeah, decay heat removal provisions. Strain limiting in addition to stress limiting. The SL-1 accident was caused by uncontrolled strain recovery.
 
thanx:smile:
 
  • #10
hi i am working in non uniform beam design (backhoe loader ) anyone can help me what the methods can be used to calculate the dimensions?
 

Similar threads

Automotive What particular mechanic or engineer does this work?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Effective Design Checking Techniques for Mechanical Engineers
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Oxide Measurement of a fuel element.
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
What is the Mechanical Advantage of the Engineer's Machine?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
17K
Designing a Safe and Simple Enrichment Object for Elephants at the National Zoo
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Quantum Workforce Elements, Toolbox for QIS Programs at Universities
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Alt azimuth mount for heliostat design
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Is Mechanical Engineering Right for Me?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Design Calculation Approach for Worm Wheel and Worm Lifting Machine Part
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
8K
Admissions Comments on PhD Statement of Purpose
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K