Year
2010
File Attachment
Abstract
TN International has developed a new package called TN®PNS dedicated to the transport of Primary Neutron Source rods (PNS) containing Californium-252 neutron sources. PNS are necessary to start the new nuclear cores and to calibrate the control devices. In the framework of the nuclear renaissance, new nuclear power plants will have to be started, including the EPR™ reactors. Transports are done from France where the PNS rods are manufactured by AREVA CERCA to any nuclear site all over the world, by road, sea, rail and air transport mode. This package is a cylindrical shape cask. A specific shielding located near the sources allows a biological protection for the high level of radiation emitted by the rods. High performance radiation shielding is provided during the transport and loading/unloading operations. The package is equipped with a transport frame which purpose is to handle, to secure in transport and to tilt the cask. A transportable vertical stand is dedicated to stabilization once the package is in vertical position. One of the main characteristic of the TN®PNS is that it is fully integrated to the PNS rods manufacturing line for better safety and operability performances. Contrarily to most of packages, trunnions are not located on package but on the frame. Lodgements in the packages are ensuring tie-down and tilting functions without any relief on the cask body. Geometry of the holes is designed so that tie-down is resistant to accelerations for air transport. All the tilting and tie-down system can be set up very easily by hand.