Transport and handling of radioisotope thermoelectric generators at Westinghouse Hanford Company

Abstract

Westinghouse Hnaford Company is converting part of the Fuels and Materials Examination Facility, located at the Hanford Site in southeastern Washington State, to fuel and test radioisotope thermoelectric generators. The facility is referred to as the Radioisotope Power Systems Facility (RPSF). Historically, this activity has been performed at EG&G Mound Applied Technologies Inc. in Miamisburg, Ohio. Transportation and handling of the generator within the RPSF will be facilitated by the re‐design of the Mound system to reduce the number of steps and therefore reduce operator dose. The overall handling concept has been retained and, wherever possible, the original design has been maintained. Changes reflect a simplified design, reducing the number of parts and a consistent interface between the generator to both the testing equipment and the transport cart. The new system design also improves operator efficiency and reduces operating costs.