Operational Best Practices and Sustainability of the UX-30 package

The UX-30 package is an essential package to support international transport flows of enriched UF6 between enrichment facilities and fuel manufacturers. It is approved by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as a type B package and it can transport UF6 from natural and reprocessed uranium enriched up to 5% with a 30B or a 30C cylinder. It is also licensed in 10 countries around the world. Today, a fleet of more than two thousand (2,000) UX-30 overpacks is operated and transported by multiple worldwide users. Over the last two years, several similar issues related to the disengagement of ball lock pins which assure the closure of the two half shells of the UX-30 package have impacted the shipments highlighting the need to share information between users and to implement best inspection and maintenance practices. In addition, an evaluation of the sustainability of the UX-30 package has been conducted jointly between Columbiana Hi- Tech (CHT) and AREVA TN based on the following points: - Licensing and regulatory status - Operating of the package - Manufacturing and maintenance of the package This paper will describe operational best practices and the positive results of the joint effort between CHT and AREVA licensing experts for the continued use of a welldesigned and efficient package