EP0998745A1 - Device and method for permanently controlling the tightness of closing lids of containers for radioactive materials - Google Patents
Device and method for permanently controlling the tightness of closing lids of containers for radioactive materialsInfo
- Publication number
- EP0998745A1 EP0998745A1 EP98939710A EP98939710A EP0998745A1 EP 0998745 A1 EP0998745 A1 EP 0998745A1 EP 98939710 A EP98939710 A EP 98939710A EP 98939710 A EP98939710 A EP 98939710A EP 0998745 A1 EP0998745 A1 EP 0998745A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- cover
- covers
- tightness
- control
- orifice
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21F—PROTECTION AGAINST X-RADIATION, GAMMA RADIATION, CORPUSCULAR RADIATION OR PARTICLE BOMBARDMENT; TREATING RADIOACTIVELY CONTAMINATED MATERIAL; DECONTAMINATION ARRANGEMENTS THEREFOR
- G21F5/00—Transportable or portable shielded containers
- G21F5/06—Details of, or accessories to, the containers
- G21F5/12—Closures for containers; Sealing arrangements
Definitions
- the invention relates to a device and a method for checking the tightness of covers, generally multiple, stacked on top of each other, closing the cavity of a container for transporting or storing radioactive materials, for example irradiated fuels or the vitrified residues from the reprocessing of these fuels, said device enabling the tightness of each of the lids to be checked, not only during their successive closure, but also thereafter, after complete closure of the container, during its lifetime while it is loaded during transport or storage.
- radioactive materials for example irradiated fuels or the vitrified residues from the reprocessing of these fuels
- Radioactive materials in particular irradiated nuclear fuel assemblies or vitrified residues from reprocessing, are generally transported and / or stored in heavy containers (also called packaging) of cylindrical shape with thick walls (from a few cm to several tens of cm) , monolayers or multilayers, mainly based on forged or cast or rolled steel (possibly associated with lead), or based on cast iron, which in particular provide mechanical resistance functions (resistance to severe impacts, for example in the event of a fall ), radiological protection and thermal transfer.
- heavy containers also called packaging
- monolayers or multilayers mainly based on forged or cast or rolled steel (possibly associated with lead), or based on cast iron, which in particular provide mechanical resistance functions (resistance to severe impacts, for example in the event of a fall ), radiological protection and thermal transfer.
- These containers usually have a cylindrical shell closed at one of its ends by a bottom fixed in a sealed manner (for example by welding).
- the cavity thus formed, in which the radioactive material takes place, is closed at the other end of the shell, sometimes by a single cover, but the more often by at least two watertight removable metal covers, stacked on one another.
- O-rings either of elastomeric nature or of metallic nature, arranged in grooves whose geometry must be defined very precisely as a function of the characteristics of the seals that are used. .
- each cover is equipped with two concentric seals bearing on a shoulder formed in the shell. This tightness must be able to be checked at any time, or even continuously for containers which, once loaded, are placed in a long-term storage location.
- Figure 1 schematically shows an example of what is known to achieve to ensure and control the tightness of a container for nuclear material having either a single cover (1) or two overlapping covers (1) and (2) , i.e. three overlapping covers (1), (2) and (3).
- a first thick cover (1) serves to confine the radioactive material taking place in the cavity (C) of the container.
- the cover (1) is supported on a shoulder formed in the thick metal shell (4), generally cylindrical, constituting the body of the container, by means of two concentric seals (1 1), located in grooves cut in the cover flange (1) and tightened with bolts. It comprises a service channel (8) communicating the cavity (C) with the outside by opening onto the upper face of the cover (1) through a service orifice.
- This service channel is used to perform various manipulations in the cavity (C), for example introducing or extracting water, creating a vacuum, introducing or extracting a gas such as He, N 2 ...
- the cover (1) further comprises a control channel (5) communicating the space between the two seals (1 1) with the outside by opening on the upper face of the cover through a control orifice to which one can adapt various control devices (manometers, qualitative and / or quantitative gas analyzer, for example mass spectrometer, vacuum pump, gas under pressure), as will be seen below, making it possible to check the tightness of the joints.
- control devices manometers, qualitative and / or quantitative gas analyzer, for example mass spectrometer, vacuum pump, gas under pressure
- the service orifice (8) is closed by a closure, not shown, comprising two concentric seals; a closable control tap, by a plug accessible from the top of the cover, opens between these two seals and makes it possible to check the seal.
- the control channel (5) is closed by a plug.
- this secondary cover comprises two concentric seals (12) bearing on a shoulder formed in the shell, a service channel (9) and a control channel (6) used and closed in the same way as in the case of the cover. (1).
- the service channel (9) is used to manage the space between the covers (1) and (2) and the control channel (6) to check the tightness of the seals (12).
- the container After closing and checking the tightness of the cover and doing the same for the service openings, the control devices connected to the openings (5) and (6) having been dismantled, the container is ready. However, once placed in storage, it is sometimes covered with a thick metal protective cover (30) allowing it to withstand even better aircraft falls.
- the following methods can be used: i) the cavity (C) having been filled with a gas, in general helium at 0.5 bar absolute, a vacuum can be created in the space between seals (1 1), at a pressure lower than those prevailing on either side of said seals (for example a few mbar) then observe and measure through the control orifice a possible rise in pressure in this space using a pressure gauge of the type (14).
- This method allows measurement of leak rates in the range of about 10 -5 to 10 -3 atm.cm 3 / sec;
- the space between seals can be put under overpressure with respect to the pressures prevailing on either side of said seals (for example 6 bars) and a possible pressure drop can be measured using also a pressure gauge of the type
- a helium test can be performed, which consists of making a vacuum in the space between seals and, the cavity being filled with helium at pressure PI, to count the amount of helium sucked by the possible leakage of the attached using a mass spectrometer previously calibrated using a calibrated leak. This method is much more sensitive and can detect leaks between 10 " 9 and 10 ⁇ 6 atm.cm 3 / sec.
- the pressure P2 can be continuously monitored by means of a pressure sensor. If, subsequently during long-term storage of the container, this pressure decreases, this is a sign of a leak either towards the atmosphere, or towards the cavity (C) of the container since the pressure P2 is significantly higher than the atmospheric pressure. external and a fortiori at the reduced pressure PI prevailing in the cavity (C). It is seen that thus the confinement of the radioactivity is ensured and that there is impossibility of release of radioactivity from the container cavity to the environment.
- the generally adopted solution consists in installing a guard cover (3) equipped, like the covers (1) and (2), with two concentric seals (13 ) resting on a shoulder of the ferrule, a control orifice (7) for testing the tightness of the concentric seals (13) of the cover (3) and a service orifice (10) intended to put the space between the covers (2) and (3) under a gas pressure P3, this orifice being in turn closed by a closure with double controllable seals.
- the Applicant has sought a device and a method making it possible to locate possible leaks on each of the covers, independently of each other, both on the main seals and on the seals of the various service orifices, while simplifying the control operations. sealing, especially those made during storage of the container.
- the invention is a device for checking the tightness of the covers of a heavy metal container for the transport and / or storage of radioactive materials, said container comprising a cavity for nuclear materials delimited by a thick cylindrical shell. closed at one end using a bottom fixed in a leaktight manner and at the other end by at least two superimposed covers, removable and thick, characterized in that said covers are held in abutment on shoulders, practiced in the ferrule, by means of flanges fitted with at least two concentric seals, that each cover corresponds to at least two channels passing through said ferrule, opening through a first control orifice on the external surface of the ferrule near the covers in an accessible location, and through a second orifice, one in the space between the concentric joints of the cover, the other in the space between said cover, the ferrule and the immediately superimposed cover, each control orifice being optionally connected to a measurement and leakage control circuit.
- the leaktightness measurement and control circuit essentially comprises a buffer volume connected to generally common measurement and control devices, such as pressure gauges, vacuum pump, gas analyzer (for example mass spectrometer), gas cylinder. under pressure (e.g. He, N 2 , Ar), using piping and valve sets.
- generally common measurement and control devices such as pressure gauges, vacuum pump, gas analyzer (for example mass spectrometer), gas cylinder. under pressure (e.g. He, N 2 , Ar), using piping and valve sets.
- This device for checking the tightness of the cover seals essentially comprising channels passing through the thick shell of the container, can advantageously be supplemented by the addition of a service channel still passing through the shell and opening directly into the cavity.
- the channels opening into the spaces between covers according to the invention can not only serve to check the tightness of the cover joints in cooperation with the channels opening into the spaces between joints, but also serve as a service channel. to manage the atmosphere of the space between covers (nature of the gas introduced, pressure, vacuum).
- the control and service channels such as as seen above in fig. l respectively marks 5,6,7 and 8,9,10) passing through the covers, with their closures accessible from the upper face of said covers.
- said service channels of each cover must be connected, by connecting tubes, to the control channel opening into the space between the joints of the same cover, said space being connected according to the invention to a control channel sealing, opening to the outside after having crossed the shell, in order to be able to check the tightness of the closings of the service channels of said cover.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a container with its device for checking the tightness of the covers, according to the invention.
- the container has three lids, the cover (3) being added, as has already been seen, in case of leakage of the primary cover (1).
- the channels 15, 1 7, 19 open into the space between the concentric joints of the covers 1, 2, 3 respectively, while the channels 1 6, 18 open into each of the two spaces between the said covers.
- the orifices of these channels 15, 1 6, 1 7, 18, 19, 20, located on the outer wall of the ferrule can be conventionally closed by closures (not shown) comprising two concentric seals; to check sealing a connection connects the space between these seals to the outer wall of the shell, connection which is then closed by a plug.
- each of the channels located on the outer wall of the shell is connected to a buffer volume V5, V6, V7, V8, V9.
- Each of them is in turn connected by a circuit of tubes and valves to the measuring devices used to perform the leakage control: pressure measurement (14), vacuum pump (21), mass spectrometer (22) , pressurized He bottle (23), etc.
- Each of the covers also has control channels 5-6-7 opening into the spaces between the double seals (1 1, 12, 13) and service channels (8, 9, 10) opening into the cavity (C) and in the spaces between covers (P2, P3) inside the circle formed by the concentric joints (1 1, 12,13).
- control taps of the double seals of the closures (not shown) of the service channels (8-9-10) are connected, by connecting tubes (25-26-27), to the control channels ( 5-6-7).
- the channels according to the invention are drilled in the metal shell (steel or cast iron); but when the latter is composite, that is to say when the internal steel ferrule is covered with lead, resin, etc., said channels drilled in the internal steel ferrule are usually extended by tubes passing through the successive layers. up to the surface.
- the invention also relates to a method for checking the tightness of the various covers. Various procedures can be applied depending on whether the container has one or more lids.
- the cavity was filled with gas, for example He, at a pressure PI lower than atmospheric pressure (generally 0.5 bar), the space between the covers (1) and (2) filled with a different gas. (for example N 2 ) at a pressure P2 greater than atmospheric pressure (for example 6 bar), P2 being measured continuously via the channel (16), the buffer volume (V6) and the pressure indicator (14).
- gas for example He
- PI lower than atmospheric pressure generally 0.5 bar
- N 2 the space between the covers (1) and (2) filled with a different gas.
- P2 greater than atmospheric pressure (for example 6 bar)
- P2 being measured continuously via the channel (16), the buffer volume (V6) and the pressure indicator (14).
- the vacuum is made using the pump (21) in the space between seals (1 1) via the channel (15), and the pumped gas is analyzed using the mass spectrometer (22 ).
- the analysis identifies He, it is the cover (1) which leaks either by the internal seal (1 1), or by the seal of the closure plug of the service channel (8). If the analysis reveals the presence of nitrogen, the leak is then on the outer seal (1 1) or on the outer seal of the service channel closure (8).
- a variant consists in replacing N 2 by He once the internal seal (1 1) is tested as tight.
- the remedy for a leak detected on the primary cover (1) can be to install a third cover (3) and thus to transfer the primary barrier initially constituted by the cover (1) on the cover (2).
- the device according to the invention makes it possible to use other methods for detecting and locating possible leaks.
- the device according to the invention makes it possible to measure continuously and at will from the outside, the possible leakage rate of each of the joints of each of the covers, including the deeper, and in addition without any disassembly being necessary.
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- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- High Energy & Nuclear Physics (AREA)
- Examining Or Testing Airtightness (AREA)
Abstract
The invention concerns a device for controlling the tightness of the lids of a heavy metal container for transporting and/or storing radioactive materials, said container comprising a cavity for nuclear materials delimited by a thick cylindrical shell closed at one end with a tightly fixed base and at the other end with at least two removable, thick superposed lids. The invention is characterised in that said lids are maintained supported on shoulders, arranged in the shell, by means of flanges provided with at least two concentric joints, and to each lid correspond at least two channels passing through said shell, emerging through a first control orifice at the shell outer surface in the proximity of the lids in an accessible place, and through a second orifice, one in the space between the lid concentric joints, the other in the space located between said lid, the shell and the immediately superposed lid, each orifice being optionally connected to a circuit measuring and controlling tightness.
Description
DISPOSITIF ET PROCEDE DE CONTROLE PERMANENT DE L'ETANCHEITE DE COUVERCLES D'OBTURATION DE CONTENEURS POUR MATIERES RADIOACTIVES DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PERMANENTLY TESTING THE SEALING OF CONTAINER LID COVERS FOR RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS
DOMAINE TECHNIQUETECHNICAL AREA
L'invention concerne un dispositif et un procédé de contrôle de l'étαnchéité de couvercles, généralement multiples, empilés les uns sur les autres, obturant la cavité d'un conteneur de transport ou stockage de matières radioactives, par exemple des combustibles irradiés ou les résidus vitrifiés du retraitement de ces combustibles, ledit dispositif permettant le contrôle de l'étanchéité de chacun des couvercles, non seulement lors de leur fermeture successive, mais encore par la suite, après fermeture complète du conteneur, au cours de sa vie alors qu'il est chargé, lors de son transport ou de son stockage.The invention relates to a device and a method for checking the tightness of covers, generally multiple, stacked on top of each other, closing the cavity of a container for transporting or storing radioactive materials, for example irradiated fuels or the vitrified residues from the reprocessing of these fuels, said device enabling the tightness of each of the lids to be checked, not only during their successive closure, but also thereafter, after complete closure of the container, during its lifetime while it is loaded during transport or storage.
ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUESTATE OF THE ART
Les matières radioactives, en particulier les assemblages combustibles nucléaires irradiés ou les résidus vitrifiés du retraitement, sont généralement transportées et/ou stockées dans des conteneurs lourds (également appelés emballages) de forme cylindrique à parois épaisses (de quelques cm à plusieurs dizaines de cm), monocouches ou multicouches, principalement à base d'acier forgé ou moulé ou laminé (éventuellement associé à du plomb), ou à base de fonte, qui assurent notamment des fonctions de tenue mécanique (résistance aux chocs sévères, par exemple en cas de chute), de protection radiologique et de transfert thermique.Radioactive materials, in particular irradiated nuclear fuel assemblies or vitrified residues from reprocessing, are generally transported and / or stored in heavy containers (also called packaging) of cylindrical shape with thick walls (from a few cm to several tens of cm) , monolayers or multilayers, mainly based on forged or cast or rolled steel (possibly associated with lead), or based on cast iron, which in particular provide mechanical resistance functions (resistance to severe impacts, for example in the event of a fall ), radiological protection and thermal transfer.
Ces conteneurs comportent habituellement une virole cylindrique fermée à une de ses extrémités par fond fixé de façon étanche (par exemple par soudure).These containers usually have a cylindrical shell closed at one of its ends by a bottom fixed in a sealed manner (for example by welding).
La cavité ainsi formée, dans laquelle prend place la matière radioactive, est fermée à l'autre extrémité de la virole, parfois par un couvercle unique, mais le
plus souvent par au moins deux couvercles métalliques amovibles étanches, empilés les uns sur les autres.The cavity thus formed, in which the radioactive material takes place, is closed at the other end of the shell, sometimes by a single cover, but the more often by at least two watertight removable metal covers, stacked on one another.
Pour réaliser l'étanchéité, il est connu d'utiliser des joints toriques, soit de nature élastomère, soit de nature métallique, disposés dans des gorges dont la géométrie doit être définie de façon très précise en fonction des caractéristiques des joints qu'on utilise. Habituellement chaque couvercle est équipé de deux joints concentriques prenant appui sur un épaulement pratiqué dans la virole. Cette étanchéité doit pouvoir être contrôlée à tout moment, voire en continu pour les conteneurs qui, une fois chargés, sont placés dans un lieu de stockage de longue durée.To achieve sealing, it is known to use O-rings, either of elastomeric nature or of metallic nature, arranged in grooves whose geometry must be defined very precisely as a function of the characteristics of the seals that are used. . Usually each cover is equipped with two concentric seals bearing on a shoulder formed in the shell. This tightness must be able to be checked at any time, or even continuously for containers which, once loaded, are placed in a long-term storage location.
La figure 1 représente schématiquement un exemple de ce qu'il est connu de réaliser pour assurer et contrôler l'étanchéité d'un conteneur pour matière nucléaire comportant soit un couvercle unique (1 ), soit deux couvercles superposés (1 ) et (2), soit trois couvercles superposés (1 ),(2) et (3).Figure 1 schematically shows an example of what is known to achieve to ensure and control the tightness of a container for nuclear material having either a single cover (1) or two overlapping covers (1) and (2) , i.e. three overlapping covers (1), (2) and (3).
Un premier couvercle épais (1 ), ou couvercle primaire, sert à confiner la matière radioactive prenant place dans la cavité (C) du conteneur.A first thick cover (1), or primary cover, serves to confine the radioactive material taking place in the cavity (C) of the container.
Le couvercle (1 ) prend appui sur un épaulement pratiqué dans la virole métallique épaisse (4), en général cylindrique, constituant le corps du conteneur, par l'intermédiaire de deux joints concentriques (1 1 ), situés dans des gorges taillées dans la bride du couvercle (1 ) et serrés à l'aide de boulons. II comprend un canal de service (8) faisant communiquer la cavité (C) avec l'extérieur en débouchant sur la face supérieure du couvercle (1 ) par un orifice de service. Ce canal de service sert à effectuer diverses manipulations dans la cavité (C), par exemple introduire ou extraire de l'eau, faire le vide, introduire ou extraire un gaz comme He, N2 ...
Le couvercle (1 ) comprend encore un canal de contrôle (5) faisant communiquer l'espace compris entre les deux joints (1 1 ) avec l'extérieur en débouchant sur la face supérieure de couvercle par un orifice de contrôle sur lequel on peut adapter divers dispositifs de contrôle (manomètres, analyseur de gaz qualitatif et/ou quantitatif, par exemple spectromètre de masse, pompe à vide, gaz sous pression), comme cela sera vu plus loin, permettant de contrôler l'étanchéité des joints.The cover (1) is supported on a shoulder formed in the thick metal shell (4), generally cylindrical, constituting the body of the container, by means of two concentric seals (1 1), located in grooves cut in the cover flange (1) and tightened with bolts. It comprises a service channel (8) communicating the cavity (C) with the outside by opening onto the upper face of the cover (1) through a service orifice. This service channel is used to perform various manipulations in the cavity (C), for example introducing or extracting water, creating a vacuum, introducing or extracting a gas such as He, N 2 ... The cover (1) further comprises a control channel (5) communicating the space between the two seals (1 1) with the outside by opening on the upper face of the cover through a control orifice to which one can adapt various control devices (manometers, qualitative and / or quantitative gas analyzer, for example mass spectrometer, vacuum pump, gas under pressure), as will be seen below, making it possible to check the tightness of the joints.
Après usage, l'orifice de service (8) est obturé par une fermeture, non représentée, comportant deux joints concentriques; un piquage de contrôle obturable, par un bouchon accessible du dessus du couvercle, débouche entre ces deux joints et permet d'en contrôler l'étanchéité. Le canal de contrôle (5) est, quant à lui, obturé par un bouchon.After use, the service orifice (8) is closed by a closure, not shown, comprising two concentric seals; a closable control tap, by a plug accessible from the top of the cover, opens between these two seals and makes it possible to check the seal. The control channel (5) is closed by a plug.
Une fois que le couvercle primaire (1 ) a été installé, son étanchéité vérifiée, les orifices de service obturés, leur étanchéité vérifiée, un deuxième couvercle de sécurité (2) ou couvercle secondaire, est mis en place au-dessus du couvercle (1 ) selon les mêmes modalités. Ainsi ce couvercle secondaire comporte deux joints concentriques (12) prenant appui sur un épaulement pratiqué dans la virole, un canal de service (9) et un canal de contrôle (6) utilisés et obturés de la même façon, que dans le cas du couvercle (1 ).Once the primary cover (1) has been installed, its tightness checked, the service ports closed, their tightness checked, a second safety cover (2) or secondary cover, is put in place above the cover (1 ) in the same manner. Thus this secondary cover comprises two concentric seals (12) bearing on a shoulder formed in the shell, a service channel (9) and a control channel (6) used and closed in the same way as in the case of the cover. (1).
Le canal de service (9) sert à gérer l'espace entre les couvercles (1 ) et (2) et le canal de contrôle (6) à vérifier l'étanchéité des joints (12).The service channel (9) is used to manage the space between the covers (1) and (2) and the control channel (6) to check the tightness of the seals (12).
Après avoir fermé et contrôlé l'étanchéité du couvercle et fait de même pour les orifices de service, les dispositifs de contrôle branchés sur les orifices (5) et (6) ayant été démontés, le conteneur est prêt. Cependant, une fois mis en place au stockage, il est parfois recouvert d'un épais capot de protection métallique(30) lui permettant de résister encore mieux aux chutes d'avions.After closing and checking the tightness of the cover and doing the same for the service openings, the control devices connected to the openings (5) and (6) having been dismantled, the container is ready. However, once placed in storage, it is sometimes covered with a thick metal protective cover (30) allowing it to withstand even better aircraft falls.
Pour contrôler l'étanchéité des doubles joints, par exemple (1 1 ) (12), on peut utiliser les méthodes suivantes :
i) la cavité (C) ayant été remplie d'un gaz, en général de l'hélium à 0,5 bar absolu, on peut faire le vide dans l'espace entre joints (1 1 ), à une pression inférieure à celles régnant de part et d'autre desdits joints (par exemple quelques mbar) puis observer et mesurer par l'orifice de contrôle une remontée de pression éventuelle dans cet espace à l'aide d'un manomètre du type (14). Cette méthode permet de mesurer des taux de fuite dans une plage d'environ 10-5 à 10-3 atm.cm3/sec;To check the tightness of the double seals, for example (1 1) (12), the following methods can be used: i) the cavity (C) having been filled with a gas, in general helium at 0.5 bar absolute, a vacuum can be created in the space between seals (1 1), at a pressure lower than those prevailing on either side of said seals (for example a few mbar) then observe and measure through the control orifice a possible rise in pressure in this space using a pressure gauge of the type (14). This method allows measurement of leak rates in the range of about 10 -5 to 10 -3 atm.cm 3 / sec;
ii) on peut mettre l'espace entre joints en surpression par rapport aux pressions régnant de part et d'autre desdits joints (par exemple 6 bars) et mesurer une baisse de pression éventuelle à l'aide également d'un manomètre du typeii) the space between seals can be put under overpressure with respect to the pressures prevailing on either side of said seals (for example 6 bars) and a possible pressure drop can be measured using also a pressure gauge of the type
(14). Cette méthode permet de mesurer des taux de fuite dans une plage d'environ 10"ό à 10~3 atm.cmNsec;(14). This method measures leak rates in the range of about 10 "ό to 10 ~ 3 atm.cmNsec;
iii) on peut pratiquer un test à l'hélium, qui consiste à faire le vide dans l'espace entre joints et, la cavité étant remplie d'hélium à pression PI , de compter la quantité d'hélium aspiré par la fuite éventuelle du joint à l'aide d'un spectromètre de masse préalablement étalonné à l'aide d'une fuite calibrée. Cette méthode est beaucoup plus sensible et permet de détecter des fuites comprises entre 10"9 et 10~6 atm.cm3/sec.iii) a helium test can be performed, which consists of making a vacuum in the space between seals and, the cavity being filled with helium at pressure PI, to count the amount of helium sucked by the possible leakage of the attached using a mass spectrometer previously calibrated using a calibrated leak. This method is much more sensitive and can detect leaks between 10 " 9 and 10 ~ 6 atm.cm 3 / sec.
En jouant sur différents gaz introduits de part et d'autre des joints, on peut alors repérer quel est le joint, intérieur ou extérieur, qui fuit.By playing on different gases introduced on either side of the seals, we can then identify which is the seal, inside or outside, which is leaking.
Ainsi, lors de la mise en place du couvercle (1 ) et après avoir rempli la cavité (C) de gaz à une pression PI inférieure à la pression atmosphérique (en général de l'hélium à 0,5 bar absolu, comme cela a été dit) on peut vérifier l'étanchéité des joints doubles (1 1 ) et ensuite celle des joints doubles de la fermeture du ou des orifices de service, à l'aide des piquages de contrôle débouchant dans leurs espaces entre joints.
Ces vérifications terminées, le couvercle (2) est alors mis en place et l'espace entre les couvercles (1 ) et (2) est rempli d'un gaz à pression P2 généralement supérieure à P I (typiquement de l'hélium ou de l'azote avec une pression de service de 6 bar) et les vérifications d'étanchéité des différents joints faites comme pour le couvercle (1 ).Thus, during the fitting of the cover (1) and after filling the cavity (C) with gas at a pressure P1 below atmospheric pressure (in general helium at 0.5 bar absolute, as has been said) one can check the tightness of the double seals (1 1) and then that of the double seals of the closing of the service opening (s), using the control tappings opening into their spaces between seals. These verifications completed, the cover (2) is then put in place and the space between the covers (1) and (2) is filled with a gas at pressure P2 generally greater than PI (typically helium or l (nitrogen with an operating pressure of 6 bar) and the leakage checks of the various seals made as for the cover (1).
La pression P2 peut être surveillée en continu au moyen d'un capteur de pression. Si, par la suite lors du stockage longue durée du conteneur, cette pression diminue cela est le signe d'une fuite soit vers l'atmosphère, soit vers la cavité (C) du conteneur puisque la pression P2 est nettement supérieure à la pression atmosphérique extérieure et a fortiori à la pression réduite P I régnant dans la cavité (C) . On voit qu'ainsi le confinement de la radioactivité est assuré et qu'il y a impossibilité de relâchement de radioactivité depuis la cavité du conteneur vers l'environnement.The pressure P2 can be continuously monitored by means of a pressure sensor. If, subsequently during long-term storage of the container, this pressure decreases, this is a sign of a leak either towards the atmosphere, or towards the cavity (C) of the container since the pressure P2 is significantly higher than the atmospheric pressure. external and a fortiori at the reduced pressure PI prevailing in the cavity (C). It is seen that thus the confinement of the radioactivity is ensured and that there is impossibility of release of radioactivity from the container cavity to the environment.
Pour mettre en oeuvre une action correctrice appropriée, il importe de connaître l'origine de la fuite en vérifiant les étanchéités de chacun des couvercles (1 ) et (2) .To implement an appropriate corrective action, it is important to know the origin of the leak by checking the tightness of each of the covers (1) and (2).
Pour cela il faut tout d'abord enlever le capot de protection (30) pour avoir accès au piquage de contrôle de la fermeture de l'orifice de service (9) et à l'orifice de contrôle (6) des joints (12) pour en vérifier l'étanchéité. En cas d'étanchéité, on en déduit que la fuite se situe sur le couvercle primaire, ce qui interdit par exemple de déposer le couvercle (2), pour éviter tous risques de dissémination de radioactivité dans l'atmosphère.For this it is first necessary to remove the protective cover (30) to gain access to the control tap for closing the service orifice (9) and to the control orifice (6) for the seals (12) to check for leaks. In the event of leaktightness, it is deduced therefrom that the leak is located on the primary cover, which for example prohibits removing the cover (2), to avoid any risk of dissemination of radioactivity in the atmosphere.
Si, au contraire, il est noté une fuite sur l'un des joints testés précédemment, il faut encore vérifier si cette fuite suffit à expliquer la baisse de pression constatée avant de pouvoir conclure qu'il n'y a pas d'autre fuite sur le couvercle (1 ) .
Quand on détecte une fuite sur le couvercle primaire (1 ) du conteneur, la solution généralement adoptée consiste à mettre en place un couvercle de garde (3) équipé, comme les couvercles (1 ) et (2), de deux joints concentriques (13) en appui sur un épaulement de la virole, d'un orifice de contrôle (7) pour tester l'étanchéité des joints concentriques ( 13) du couvercle (3) et d'un orifice de service (10) destiné à mettre l'espace entre les couvercles (2) et (3) sous une pression de gaz P3, cet orifice étant à son tour obturé par une fermeture à double joints contrôlables.If, on the contrary, a leak is noted on one of the joints tested previously, it must still be checked whether this leak is sufficient to explain the drop in pressure observed before being able to conclude that there is no other leak on the cover (1). When a leak is detected on the primary cover (1) of the container, the generally adopted solution consists in installing a guard cover (3) equipped, like the covers (1) and (2), with two concentric seals (13 ) resting on a shoulder of the ferrule, a control orifice (7) for testing the tightness of the concentric seals (13) of the cover (3) and a service orifice (10) intended to put the space between the covers (2) and (3) under a gas pressure P3, this orifice being in turn closed by a closure with double controllable seals.
On voit qu'avec de tels dispositifs, il n'est pas aisé de localiser avec certitude l'emplacement d'une éventuelle fuite sur les couvercles, en particulier de constater directement une fuite éventuelle sur le couvercle primaire, et de pouvoir en conséquence apporter un remède adapté. De plus pour effectuer ces contrôles il est nécessaire, comme cela a été déjà dit, d'enlever le lourd capot de protection (30) pour avoir accès aux différents bouchons des orifices de service ou de contrôle.We see that with such devices, it is not easy to locate with certainty the location of a possible leak on the covers, in particular to directly note a possible leak on the primary cover, and to be able to bring accordingly a suitable remedy. In addition to carry out these checks it is necessary, as has already been said, to remove the heavy protective cover (30) in order to have access to the various plugs of the service or control orifices.
Ainsi la demanderesse a recherché un dispositif et un procédé permettant de localiser des fuites éventuelles sur chacun des couvercles, indépendamment les uns des autres, aussi bien sur les joints principaux que sur les joints des différents orifices de service, tout en simplifiant les opérations de contrôle d'étanchéité, en particulier celles effectuées durant le stockage du conteneur.Thus, the Applicant has sought a device and a method making it possible to locate possible leaks on each of the covers, independently of each other, both on the main seals and on the seals of the various service orifices, while simplifying the control operations. sealing, especially those made during storage of the container.
DESCRIPTION DE L'INVENTION L'invention est un dispositif de contrôle d'étanchéité de couvercles d'un conteneur métallique lourd pour le transport et/ou le stockage de matières radioactives, ledit conteneur comportant une cavité pour matières nucléaires délimitée par une virole cylindrique épaisse fermée à une extrémité à l'aide d'un fond fixé de façon étanche et à l'autre extrémité par au moins deux couvercles superposés, amovibles et épais, caractérisé en ce que Iesdits couvercles sont maintenus en appui sur des épaulements, pratiqués dans la
virole, par l'intermédiaire de brides équipées d'au moins deux joints concentriques, qu'à chaque couvercle correspondent au moins deux canaux traversant ladite virole, débouchant par un premier orifice de contrôle à la surface externe de la virole à proximité des couvercles dans un endroit accessible, et par un deuxième orifice, l'un dans l'espace entre les joints concentriques du couvercle, l'autre dans l'espace situé entre ledit couvercle , la virole et le couvercle immédiatement superposé, chaque orifice de contrôle étant optionnellement relié à un circuit de mesure et de contrôle d'étanchéité.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention is a device for checking the tightness of the covers of a heavy metal container for the transport and / or storage of radioactive materials, said container comprising a cavity for nuclear materials delimited by a thick cylindrical shell. closed at one end using a bottom fixed in a leaktight manner and at the other end by at least two superimposed covers, removable and thick, characterized in that said covers are held in abutment on shoulders, practiced in the ferrule, by means of flanges fitted with at least two concentric seals, that each cover corresponds to at least two channels passing through said ferrule, opening through a first control orifice on the external surface of the ferrule near the covers in an accessible location, and through a second orifice, one in the space between the concentric joints of the cover, the other in the space between said cover, the ferrule and the immediately superimposed cover, each control orifice being optionally connected to a measurement and leakage control circuit.
Quand l'extrémité de la virole fermée par les couvercles est protégée par un capot épais, l'endroit accessible se situe en-dehors de l'emprise dudit capot.When the end of the shell closed by the covers is protected by a thick cover, the accessible place is located outside the grip of said cover.
Le circuit de mesure et de contrôle d'étanchéité comprend essentiellement un volume tampon relié à des appareils de mesure et de contrôle en général communs, tels que manomètres, pompe à vide, analyseur de gaz (par exemple spectromètre de masse), bouteille de gaz sous pression (par exemple He, N2, Ar), à l'aide de tuyauterie et jeux de vannes.The leaktightness measurement and control circuit essentially comprises a buffer volume connected to generally common measurement and control devices, such as pressure gauges, vacuum pump, gas analyzer (for example mass spectrometer), gas cylinder. under pressure (e.g. He, N 2 , Ar), using piping and valve sets.
Ce dispositif de contrôle de l'étanchéité des joints de couvercle selon l'invention comprenant essentiellement des canaux traversant la virole épaisse du conteneur, peut avantageusement être complété par l'adjonction d'un canal de service traversant encore la virole et débouchant directement dans la cavité.This device for checking the tightness of the cover seals according to the invention essentially comprising channels passing through the thick shell of the container, can advantageously be supplemented by the addition of a service channel still passing through the shell and opening directly into the cavity.
Il est à noter que les canaux débouchant dans les espaces entre couvercles selon l'invention peuvent non seulement servir au contrôle de l'étanchéité des joints de couvercles en coopération avec les canaux débouchant dans les espaces entre joints, mais également servir de canal de service pour gérer l'atmosphère de l'espace entre couvercles (nature du gaz introduit, pression, vide).
Afin de continuer à pouvoir utiliser les installations et appareillages existants de chargement des conteneurs et de contrôle de l'étanchéité de leur fermeture à partir de la face supérieure des couvercles, il est recommandé de maintenir la présence des canaux de contrôle et de service (tels que vus plus haut fig. l respectivement repères 5,6,7 et 8,9,10) traversant les couvercles, avec leurs fermetures accessibles depuis la face supérieure desdits couvercles.It should be noted that the channels opening into the spaces between covers according to the invention can not only serve to check the tightness of the cover joints in cooperation with the channels opening into the spaces between joints, but also serve as a service channel. to manage the atmosphere of the space between covers (nature of the gas introduced, pressure, vacuum). In order to continue being able to use the existing installations and apparatus for loading the containers and checking the tightness of their closure from the upper face of the covers, it is recommended to maintain the presence of the control and service channels (such as as seen above in fig. l respectively marks 5,6,7 and 8,9,10) passing through the covers, with their closures accessible from the upper face of said covers.
Mais dans ce cas Iesdits canaux de service de chaque couvercle doivent être reliés, par des tubes de liaison, au canal de contrôle débouchant dans l'espace entre les joints du même couvercle, ledit espace étant branché selon l'invention à un canal de contrôle d'étanchéité, débouchant à l'extérieur après avoir traversé la virole, afin de pouvoir contrôler l'étanchéité des fermetures des canaux de service dudit couvercle.But in this case said service channels of each cover must be connected, by connecting tubes, to the control channel opening into the space between the joints of the same cover, said space being connected according to the invention to a control channel sealing, opening to the outside after having crossed the shell, in order to be able to check the tightness of the closings of the service channels of said cover.
La figure 2 illustre un conteneur avec son dispositif de contrôle d'étanchéité des couvercles, selon l'invention.FIG. 2 illustrates a container with its device for checking the tightness of the covers, according to the invention.
Les repères ont la même signification que dans la figure 1 .The marks have the same meaning as in Figure 1.
On voit que le conteneur comporte trois couvercles, le couvercle (3) étant rajouté, comme cela a été déjà vu, en cas de fuite du couvercle primaire (1 ). Les canaux 15, 1 7, 19 débouchent dans l'espace entre les joints concentriques des couvercles 1 , 2, 3 respectivement, tandis que les canaux 1 6, 18 débouchent dans chacun des deux espaces entre Iesdits couvercles. Le canal de service 20, pouvant également servir de canal de contrôle, débouche dans la cavité où sont disposées les matières radioactives.We see that the container has three lids, the cover (3) being added, as has already been seen, in case of leakage of the primary cover (1). The channels 15, 1 7, 19 open into the space between the concentric joints of the covers 1, 2, 3 respectively, while the channels 1 6, 18 open into each of the two spaces between the said covers. The service channel 20, which can also serve as a control channel, opens into the cavity where the radioactive materials are placed.
Les orifices de ces canaux 15, 1 6, 1 7, 18, 19, 20, situés sur la paroi extérieure de la virole peuvent être obturés classiquement par des fermetures (non représentées) comportant deux joints concentriques; pour en vérifier
l'étanchéité un piquage relie l'espace entre ces joints à la paroi extérieure de la virole, piquage qui est ensuite fermé par un bouchon.The orifices of these channels 15, 1 6, 1 7, 18, 19, 20, located on the outer wall of the ferrule can be conventionally closed by closures (not shown) comprising two concentric seals; to check sealing a connection connects the space between these seals to the outer wall of the shell, connection which is then closed by a plug.
L'orifice de chacun des canaux situés sur la paroi extérieure de la virole est relié à un volume tampon V5, V6, V7, V8, V9. Chacun d'eux est à son tour relié par un circuit de tubes et de vannes aux appareils de mesures servant à effectuer le contrôle d'étanchéité : mesure de pression (14), pompe à vide (21 ), spectromètre de masse (22), bouteille d'He sous pression (23), etc..The orifice of each of the channels located on the outer wall of the shell is connected to a buffer volume V5, V6, V7, V8, V9. Each of them is in turn connected by a circuit of tubes and valves to the measuring devices used to perform the leakage control: pressure measurement (14), vacuum pump (21), mass spectrometer (22) , pressurized He bottle (23), etc.
Chacun des couvercles comporte également des canaux de contrôle 5-6-7 débouchant dans les espaces entre les doubles joints (1 1 , 12, 13) et des canaux de service (8, 9, 10) débouchant dans la cavité (C) et dans les espaces entre couvercles (P2, P3) à l'intérieur du cercle formé par les joints concentriques (1 1 ,12,13).Each of the covers also has control channels 5-6-7 opening into the spaces between the double seals (1 1, 12, 13) and service channels (8, 9, 10) opening into the cavity (C) and in the spaces between covers (P2, P3) inside the circle formed by the concentric joints (1 1, 12,13).
Selon l'invention, les piquages de contrôle des doubles joints des fermetures (non représentées) des canaux de service (8-9-10) sont reliés, par des tubes de liaison (25-26-27), aux canaux de contrôles (5-6-7).According to the invention, the control taps of the double seals of the closures (not shown) of the service channels (8-9-10) are connected, by connecting tubes (25-26-27), to the control channels ( 5-6-7).
Dans ce cas, la procédure de remplissage du conteneur et de fermeture des couvercles successifs puis du capot de protection (30), en s'assurant concomitamment de leur étanchéité lorsque cela est requis, est la même que celle utilisée pour le conteneur de la figure 1 .In this case, the procedure for filling the container and closing the successive covers and then the protective cover (30), while ensuring their tightness when required, is the same as that used for the container in the figure. 1.
Par contre, on voit qu'avec le dispositif de l'invention, on a accès à la totalité des espaces entre joints ou entre couvercles, ou à la cavité, sans aucun démontage du capot de protection (30) ou des couvercles (2) ou (3) et qu'ainsi on dispose d'un procédé permettant de vérifier l'étanchéité de chacun des couvercles y compris du couvercle primaire (1 ) lorsque la totalité des couvercles et/ou du capot de protection est en place, et de mettre en oeuvre l'action correctrice adaptée à l'endroit où la fuite éventuelle est constatée, ce qui n'était pas possible auparavant.
En général, les canaux selon l'invention sont forés dans la virole métallique (acier ou fonte); mais quand celle-ci est composite, c'est-à-dire quand la virole interne en acier est recouverte de plomb, résine ..., Iesdits canaux forés dans la virole interne en acier sont habituellement prolongés par des tubes traversant les couches successives jusqu'à déboucher en surface.By cons, we see that with the device of the invention, there is access to all of the spaces between seals or between covers, or to the cavity, without any disassembly of the protective cover (30) or the covers (2) or (3) and that in this way there is a method enabling the tightness of each of the covers, including the primary cover (1) to be checked when all the covers and / or the protective cover is in place, and implement the corrective action adapted to the place where the possible leak is noted, which was not possible before. In general, the channels according to the invention are drilled in the metal shell (steel or cast iron); but when the latter is composite, that is to say when the internal steel ferrule is covered with lead, resin, etc., said channels drilled in the internal steel ferrule are usually extended by tubes passing through the successive layers. up to the surface.
L'invention concerne également un procédé de contrôle d'étanchéité des différents couvercles. Diverses procédures peuvent être appliquées suivant que le conteneur comporte un ou plusieurs couvercles.The invention also relates to a method for checking the tightness of the various covers. Various procedures can be applied depending on whether the container has one or more lids.
Préalablement la cavité a été remplie de gaz, par exemple He, à une pression P I inférieure à la pression atmosphérique (en général 0,5 bar), l'espace entre les couvercles (1 ) et (2) rempli d'un gaz différent (par exemple N2) à une pression P2 supérieure à la pression atmosphérique (par exemple 6 bar), P2 étant mesurée en permanence par l'intermédiaire du canal (16), du volume tampon (V6) et de l'indicateur de pression (14).Beforehand, the cavity was filled with gas, for example He, at a pressure PI lower than atmospheric pressure (generally 0.5 bar), the space between the covers (1) and (2) filled with a different gas. (for example N 2 ) at a pressure P2 greater than atmospheric pressure (for example 6 bar), P2 being measured continuously via the channel (16), the buffer volume (V6) and the pressure indicator (14).
Si la pression P2 diminue, cela indique une fuite soit à travers le couvercle primaire (1 ), soit à travers le couvercle secondaire (2).If the pressure P2 decreases, this indicates a leak either through the primary cover (1) or through the secondary cover (2).
Pour détecter le couvercle fuyard la procédure suivante peut être alors appliquée.To detect the leaking cover the following procedure can then be applied.
On fait le vide à l'aide de la pompe (21 ) dans l'espace entre joints (1 1 ) par l'intermédiaire du canal (15), et on analyse le gaz pompé à l'aide du spectromètre de masse (22).The vacuum is made using the pump (21) in the space between seals (1 1) via the channel (15), and the pumped gas is analyzed using the mass spectrometer (22 ).
Si l'analyse identifie He, c'est le couvercle (1 ) qui fuit soit par le joint intérieur (1 1 ), soit par le joint du bouchon de fermeture du canal de service (8). Si l'analyse révèle la présence d'azote, la fuite est alors sur le joint extérieur (1 1 ) ou sur le joint extérieur de la fermeture du canal de service (8). Une variante consiste à remplacer N2 par He une fois le joint intérieur (1 1 ) testé comme étanche.
Le remède à une fuite détectée sur le couvercle primaire (1 ), pour éviter tout risque de dispersion de radioactivité dans l'environnement, peut être d'installer un troisième couvercle (3) et de reporter ainsi la barrière primaire initialement constituée par le couvercle (1 ) sur le couvercle (2).If the analysis identifies He, it is the cover (1) which leaks either by the internal seal (1 1), or by the seal of the closure plug of the service channel (8). If the analysis reveals the presence of nitrogen, the leak is then on the outer seal (1 1) or on the outer seal of the service channel closure (8). A variant consists in replacing N 2 by He once the internal seal (1 1) is tested as tight. The remedy for a leak detected on the primary cover (1), to avoid any risk of dispersion of radioactivity in the environment, can be to install a third cover (3) and thus to transfer the primary barrier initially constituted by the cover (1) on the cover (2).
Si on ne détecte aucune fuite après avoir fait le vide par (15), on fait le vide dans l'espace entre les couvercles (1 ) et (2) à l'aide du canal (1 6) et après avoir mis de l'hélium dans l'espace entre joints (12) du couvercle (2) à l'aide du canal (17); le spectromètre devrait alors confirmer la présence d'He.If no leak is detected after having evacuated by (15), a vacuum is created in the space between the covers (1) and (2) using the channel (1 6) and after putting in l helium in the space between seals (12) of the cover (2) using the channel (17); the spectrometer should then confirm the presence of He.
La fuite ayant bien été localisée sur le couvercle (2), à l'exclusion d'une fuite sur le couvercle (1 ), il est possible alors d'intervenir sur le couvercle (2) sans prendre de risque de dissémination, ce qu'il n'était pas possible de faire auparavant puisqu'on ne pouvait pas conclure de façon certaine à l'absence de fuite sur ledit couvercle (1 ), les joints de ce dernier n'étant pas accessibles.The leak having been located on the cover (2), excluding a leak on the cover (1), it is then possible to intervene on the cover (2) without taking the risk of dissemination, which 'It was not possible to do before since it could not be concluded with certainty that there was no leakage on said cover (1), the seals of the latter not being accessible.
Le même type de procédure peut être appliqué par la suite au contrôle des couvercles (2) et (3).The same type of procedure can be applied subsequently to the inspection of covers (2) and (3).
Le dispositif selon l'invention permet d'utiliser d'autres procédés de détection et de localisation de fuites éventuelles.The device according to the invention makes it possible to use other methods for detecting and locating possible leaks.
Par exemple après avoir rempli l'espace entre les couvercles (1 ) et (2) avec He à pression atmosphérique (P2= 1 bar), on met les espaces entre joints des doubles joints (1 1 ) et (12) sous une même pression de N2„ par exemple à 6 bar. Toute différence qui apparaîtrait ultérieurement entre les pressions de ces espaces entre joints indique une fuite dans l'un des doubles joints correspondants. L'évaluation quantitative de la fuite peut se faire ensuite en mettant sous vide l'espace entre les joints fuyards et en analysant la quantité d'He aspirée, à l'aide du spectromètre de masse.
Ainsi en jouant sur la nature des gaz utilisés et sur leur pression, le dispositif selon l'invention permet de mesurer en permanence et à volonté depuis l'extérieur, le taux de fuite éventuel de chacun des joints de chacun des couvercles, y compris le plus profond, et en outre sans qu'aucun démontage ne soit nécessaire.
For example after having filled the space between the covers (1) and (2) with He at atmospheric pressure (P2 = 1 bar), we put the spaces between seals of the double seals (1 1) and (12) under the same pressure of N 2 „for example at 6 bar. Any difference which appears later between the pressures of these spaces between seals indicates a leak in one of the corresponding double seals. The quantitative assessment of the leak can then be done by vacuuming the space between the leaking joints and analyzing the amount of He sucked in, using the mass spectrometer. Thus, by varying the nature of the gases used and their pressure, the device according to the invention makes it possible to measure continuously and at will from the outside, the possible leakage rate of each of the joints of each of the covers, including the deeper, and in addition without any disassembly being necessary.
Claims
REVENDICATIONS
. Dispositif de contrôle d'étanchéité de couvercles d'un conteneur métallique lourd pour le transport et/ou le stockage de matières radioactives, ledit conteneur comportant une cavité pour matières nucléaires délimitée par une virole cylindrique épaisse fermée à une extrémité à l'aide d'un fond fixé de façon étanche et à l'autre extrémité par au moins deux couvercles superposés, amovibles et épais, caractérisé en ce que Iesdits couvercles sont maintenus en appui sur des épaulements, pratiqués dans la virole, par l'intermédiaire de brides équipées d'au moins deux joints concentriques, qu'à chaque couvercle correspondent au moins deux canaux traversant ladite virole, débouchant par un premier orifice de contrôle à la surface externe de la virole à proximité des couvercles dans un endroit accessible, et par un deuxième orifice, l'un dans l'espace entre les joints concentriques du couvercle, l'autre dans l'espace situé entre ledit couvercle , la virole et le couvercle immédiatement superposé, chaque orifice de contrôle étant optionnellement relié à un circuit de mesure et de contrôle d'étanchéité.. Device for checking the tightness of the covers of a heavy metal container for transporting and / or storing radioactive materials, said container comprising a cavity for nuclear materials delimited by a thick cylindrical shell closed at one end using a bottom fixed in a sealed manner and at the other end by at least two superimposed covers, removable and thick, characterized in that said covers are held in abutment on shoulders, formed in the shell, by means of flanges equipped with at least two concentric seals, to which each cover corresponds to at least two channels passing through said ferrule, opening through a first control orifice on the external surface of the ferrule near the lids in an accessible location, and through a second orifice, one in the space between the concentric joints of the cover, the other in the space between said cover, the ferrule and the cover immediately superimposed, each control orifice being optionally connected to a measurement and leakage control circuit.
2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce qu'au moins un canal (20) traverse la virole (4) et débouche dans la cavité (C).2. Device according to claim 1 characterized in that at least one channel (20) passes through the ferrule (4) and opens into the cavity (C).
3. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que les orifices des canaux (15 à 20) traversant la virole (4), situés à la surface externe de ladite virole (4), sont obturés par des bouchons et fermetures possédant leur propre système de contrôle d'étanchéité.3. Device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the orifices of the channels (15 to 20) passing through the ferrule (4), located on the external surface of said ferrule (4), are closed by plugs and closures with their own tightness control system.
4. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3 caractérisé en ce que le conteneur comporte 3 couvercles (1 ,2,3) superposés.
4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 characterized in that the container has 3 overlapping lids (1, 2,3).
5. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4 caractérisé en ce que chacun des couvercles (1 ,2,3) comporte un canal de contrôle (5,6,7) débouchant entre les joints concentriques (1 1 ,12,13) des couvercles (1 ,2,3) et/ou au moins un canal de service (8,9,10) débouchant à l'intérieur du cercle formé par les joints concentriques (1 1 ,12,13), Iesdits canaux de service (8,9,10) traversant chacun desdits couvercles de sa face supérieure à sa face inférieure, et l'orifice de chaque canal de service situé sur la face supérieure du couvercle correspondant étant obturé par une fermeture comportant deux joints entre lesquels débouche un piquage de contrôle d'étanchéité lui-même obturé par un bouchon.5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that each of the covers (1, 2,3) comprises a control channel (5,6,7) opening out between the concentric seals (1 1, 12, 13) covers (1, 2,3) and / or at least one service channel (8,9,10) opening inside the circle formed by the concentric seals (1 1, 12,13), said channels service (8,9,10) passing through each of said covers from its upper face to its lower face, and the orifice of each service channel located on the upper face of the corresponding cover being closed by a closure having two seals between which opens a leakage control nozzle itself closed by a plug.
6. Dispositif selon la revendication 5 caractérisé en ce que les piquages de contrôle d'étanchéité des fermetures des canaux de service (8,9,10) sont reliées au canal de contrôle (5,6,7) du couvercle correspondant.6. Device according to claim 5 characterized in that the tightness control nozzles for the closings of the service channels (8,9,10) are connected to the control channel (5,6,7) of the corresponding cover.
7. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6 caractérisé en ce que l'orifice d'au moins un canal (15 à 20) est relié à des appareils de mesure ou de contrôle.7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 characterized in that the orifice of at least one channel (15 to 20) is connected to measuring or control devices.
8. Dispositif selon la revendication 7 caractérisé en ce que la liaison entre les orifices des canaux (15 à 20) et Iesdits appareils est faite par l'intermédiaire d'un volume tampon (V5-V9) et que Iesdits appareils sont communs à plusieurs des orifices (15 à 20).8. Device according to claim 7 characterized in that the connection between the orifices of the channels (15 to 20) and said devices is made by means of a buffer volume (V5-V9) and that said devices are common to several orifices (15 to 20).
9. Procédé de contrôle d'étanchéité utilisant le dispositif de l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8.9. A method of sealing control using the device of any one of claims 1 to 8.
10. Procédé de contrôle d'étanchéité du couvercle primaire d'un conteneur de matières radioactives comportant au moins deux couvercles (1 ,2) superposés, chacun d'eux étant fermés à l'aide de joints concentriques10. Method for checking the tightness of the primary lid of a container of radioactive materials comprising at least two overlapping lids (1, 2), each of them being closed with concentric seals
(1 1 -12), le couvercle primaire (1 ) étant au contact des matières
radioactives, caractérisé en ce qu'il est effectué lorsque la totalité des couvercles et/ou du capot de protection du conteneur est en place.
(1 1 -12), the primary cover (1) being in contact with the materials radioactive, characterized in that it is carried out when all the covers and / or the protective cover of the container is in place.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
FR9709675 | 1997-07-24 | ||
FR9709675A FR2766570B1 (en) | 1997-07-24 | 1997-07-24 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PERMANENTLY TESTING THE SEALING OF SINGLE OR MULTIPLE LIDS FOR SEALING CONTAINERS FOR RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS |
PCT/FR1998/001578 WO1999005686A1 (en) | 1997-07-24 | 1998-07-20 | Device and method for permanently controlling the tightness of closing lids of containers for radioactive materials |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0998745A1 true EP0998745A1 (en) | 2000-05-10 |
Family
ID=9509790
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP98939710A Pending EP0998745A1 (en) | 1997-07-24 | 1998-07-20 | Device and method for permanently controlling the tightness of closing lids of containers for radioactive materials |
Country Status (8)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6223587B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP0998745A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2001511531A (en) |
KR (1) | KR20010022166A (en) |
FR (1) | FR2766570B1 (en) |
SK (1) | SK792000A3 (en) |
TW (1) | TW436813B (en) |
WO (1) | WO1999005686A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (24)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2787190B1 (en) * | 1998-12-11 | 2001-02-16 | Becton Dickinson France | DEVICE FOR DETECTING THE SEALING OF THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE ELEMENTS OF A DEVICE FOR SEALING TWO ISOLATED ENCLOSURES FROM THE EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT |
EP1047082A1 (en) * | 1999-04-24 | 2000-10-25 | GNS GESELLSCHAFT FÜR NUKLEAR-SERVICE mbH | Storage container for radioactive materials |
AU5452401A (en) * | 2000-05-03 | 2001-11-12 | Structural Monitoring Sys Ltd | System and method for the detection and propagation measurement of flaws in a component or structure |
AUPQ726600A0 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2000-05-25 | Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd | System and method for continuous monitoring of the structural integrity of a component or structure |
AUPQ788000A0 (en) | 2000-05-30 | 2000-06-22 | Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd | Apparatus and method for measurement of the permeability of materials |
AUPQ823500A0 (en) | 2000-06-19 | 2000-07-13 | Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd | Apparatus for condition monitoring the integrity of fasteners and fastened joints |
AUPR260301A0 (en) | 2001-01-18 | 2001-02-15 | Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd | Method and apparatus for remote continuous condition monitoring of a structure |
US7500383B2 (en) * | 2001-07-13 | 2009-03-10 | Structural Monitoring Systems, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for monitoring the integrity of components and structures |
DE10301385B4 (en) * | 2003-01-16 | 2012-02-16 | GNS Gesellschaft für Nuklear-Service mbH | Transport and / or storage containers for radioactive waste |
US6886390B2 (en) * | 2003-02-12 | 2005-05-03 | Containment Solutions, Inc. | Double-walled containment enclosure |
JP2009200212A (en) * | 2008-02-21 | 2009-09-03 | Keihin Corp | Heat radiation structure of printed circuit board |
KR101048503B1 (en) * | 2009-07-17 | 2011-07-11 | 한전원자력연료 주식회사 | Spent Fuel Defect Detection System |
JP5371681B2 (en) * | 2009-10-16 | 2013-12-18 | 三菱重工業株式会社 | Radioactive substance containment vessel and method of using radioactive substance containment vessel |
US8850746B2 (en) * | 2009-11-30 | 2014-10-07 | Lockheed Martin Corporation | Seal assembly with leak test components |
US8261596B2 (en) * | 2010-02-04 | 2012-09-11 | Lockheed Martin Company | Seal assembly with leak monitoring |
US11515054B2 (en) | 2011-08-19 | 2022-11-29 | Holtec International | Method of retrofitting a spent nuclear fuel storage system |
US9732997B2 (en) * | 2013-04-29 | 2017-08-15 | Carrier Corporation | Low leakage seal for low pressure system |
ES2764277T3 (en) * | 2014-04-24 | 2020-06-02 | Holtec International | Storage system for nuclear fuel |
EP2975615A1 (en) * | 2014-07-17 | 2016-01-20 | GNS Gesellschaft für Nuklear-Service mbH | Transport and/or storage container and method for checking the seal of a container for transport and/or storage container |
CN104280200A (en) * | 2014-09-28 | 2015-01-14 | 深圳市华星光电技术有限公司 | Method for detecting sealing performance of vacuum cavity |
FR3038120A1 (en) * | 2015-06-26 | 2016-12-30 | Commissariat Energie Atomique | FLEXIBLE AND SEALED TRANSPORT BOX |
CN106429004A (en) * | 2016-10-30 | 2017-02-22 | 山西汾西重工有限责任公司 | Online detachable mechanism used for testing parameters inside airtight nitrogen-filled case |
JP6750078B2 (en) * | 2019-09-17 | 2020-09-02 | 株式会社神戸製鋼所 | Cask |
TWI782771B (en) * | 2021-10-28 | 2022-11-01 | 行政院原子能委員會核能研究所 | Artificial intelligence system applied to the decommissioning of nuclear power plants and the analysis method thereof |
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DE2905094C2 (en) * | 1979-02-10 | 1982-03-18 | GNS Gesellschaft für Nuklear-Service mbH, 4300 Essen | Shielding transport and / or shielding storage containers |
DE3010518A1 (en) * | 1980-03-19 | 1981-10-01 | GNS Gesellschaft für Nuklear-Service mbH, 4300 Essen | COMPONENT KIT FOR SHIELDED TRANSPORT AND FOR SHIELDED STORAGE OF RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES |
DE3025795C2 (en) * | 1980-07-08 | 1986-08-28 | GNS Gesellschaft für Nuklear-Service mbH, 4300 Essen | Process for the continuous monitoring of two sealing barriers in shielding transport and storage containers for radioactive substances |
JPS57113341A (en) * | 1980-12-29 | 1982-07-14 | Hitachi Zosen Corp | Leakage inspection for airtightness of radioactive substance conveying container |
JPS5983096A (en) * | 1982-11-02 | 1984-05-14 | 木村化工機株式会社 | Radioactive material transporting cask and its leakage test |
IT1185498B (en) * | 1984-11-13 | 1987-11-12 | Westinghouse Electric Corp | CLOSING SYSTEM OF A DRUM FOR THE STORAGE OF OUT OF FUEL |
US4983352A (en) * | 1984-11-13 | 1991-01-08 | Westinghouse Electric Corp. | Closure system for a spent fuel storage cask |
FR2649824B1 (en) * | 1989-07-17 | 1994-03-25 | Commissariat A Energie Atomique | PACKAGE FOR THE STORAGE AND TRANSPORT OF FISSIL MATERIAL |
FR2666440B1 (en) * | 1990-08-28 | 1992-12-11 | Framatome Sa | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE PLACEMENT OF A TRANSPORTABLE ELEMENT AND THE SEALING OF THE CONNECTION WITH A FIXED STRUCTURE AND USE OF THIS METHOD. |
GB2265675B (en) * | 1992-04-01 | 1995-03-01 | Nirex Uk Ltd | Sealing arrangement |
-
1997
- 1997-07-24 FR FR9709675A patent/FR2766570B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1998
- 1998-07-08 TW TW087111071A patent/TW436813B/en active
- 1998-07-20 EP EP98939710A patent/EP0998745A1/en active Pending
- 1998-07-20 JP JP2000504582A patent/JP2001511531A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1998-07-20 US US09/463,223 patent/US6223587B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1998-07-20 WO PCT/FR1998/001578 patent/WO1999005686A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1998-07-20 SK SK79-2000A patent/SK792000A3/en unknown
- 1998-07-20 KR KR1020007000738A patent/KR20010022166A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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See references of WO9905686A1 * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO1999005686A1 (en) | 1999-02-04 |
SK792000A3 (en) | 2000-07-11 |
FR2766570B1 (en) | 1999-09-24 |
JP2001511531A (en) | 2001-08-14 |
FR2766570A1 (en) | 1999-01-29 |
TW436813B (en) | 2001-05-28 |
US6223587B1 (en) | 2001-05-01 |
KR20010022166A (en) | 2001-03-15 |
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