The Pros and Cons of using legacy RAM Transport Packages and Equipment for the transport, storage and disposal of nuclear material it was not originally designed for

INS are tasked with transporting RAM as part of the NDA’s safe and efficient clean-up of the UK’s nuclear legacy. In a time of austerity and in a period where the nuclear industry is being scrutinised for its expenditure, it is easy to think that using existing and legacy equipment saves time and money. But is this really the case? This paper explores the practicalities, and the pros and cons, of using legacy equipment for the transport of RAM, and shows how important it is to have a robust asset and Design Authority handover. It investigates how to license existing equipment for alternative uses, and how novel and non-standard approaches may be required to meet the licensing regulations. It explores how existing and different contents and use can influence disposal route and conditions for acceptance for the consigner and the consignee. It evaluates how the waste and its package compatibility, with specific sites/planets and how these can influence changes to the existing package design and handling equipment. It examines how the lifespan of legacy equipment can be extending and what challenges can occur when using old and outdated Standards, the ongoing maintenance challenges, replacement parts and spares. And finally what happens to the equipment when it is no longer required.