EP1700315B1 - Device and method for packing nuclear fuel assemblies having a double containment barrier - Google Patents

Device and method for packing nuclear fuel assemblies having a double containment barrier Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1700315B1
EP1700315B1 EP04805791A EP04805791A EP1700315B1 EP 1700315 B1 EP1700315 B1 EP 1700315B1 EP 04805791 A EP04805791 A EP 04805791A EP 04805791 A EP04805791 A EP 04805791A EP 1700315 B1 EP1700315 B1 EP 1700315B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
receptacle
leak tight
passage
outer receptacle
container
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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.)
Not-in-force
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EP04805791A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1700315A2 (en
Inventor
René CHIOCCA
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TN International SA
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TN International SA
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    • 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
    • G21F5/005—Containers for solid radioactive wastes, e.g. for ultimate disposal
    • G21F5/008—Containers for fuel elements
    • 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
    • G21F5/005—Containers for solid radioactive wastes, e.g. for ultimate disposal
    • 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
    • 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 present invention relates to the conditioning of nuclear fuel assemblies and more particularly to the devices allowing double confinement of the assemblies, as well as to the packaging procedure in the containers before a possible transport or storage.
  • Nuclear fuel assemblies require special procedures for their use, transportation, and even as waste. Thus, after use, irradiated nuclear fuel assemblies from nuclear power plants must be stored. Nuclear power plants have a pool in which these assemblages are stored, but this storage is temporary, and the nuclear fuel assemblies must then be evacuated to storage sites that are said to be "definitive or temporary", including in particular sealed metal enclosures protected by concrete storage modules.
  • the metal container essentially comprises a hollow tubular body, of generally cylindrical shape with circular section, provided with a closed lower end and a fully open upper end.
  • second confinement an additional confinement, hereinafter called “second confinement”, is necessary in addition to the confinement provided by the sealed metal container: an additional double enclosure must be put in place.
  • Some legislations impose besides this double enclosure. In this case, the packaging under water is not operational so far, because of the drainage problems of the second containment in particular.
  • the invention proposes to solve the problems inherent in the drainage of double containers.
  • the invention relates to a device for double containers which allows, thanks to its geometry, to ensure drainage and an inert gas of the outer container or to control the seal. Thanks to the presence of a free passage between the two containers, also fitted one into the other, the drainage of the outer container can be carried out for example by a dip tube which goes down to the bottom of the container.
  • a dip tube which goes down to the bottom of the container.
  • the two containers may be a sealed metal container and its radioprotective packaging, but it is also possible that each of the containers is a sealed metal packaging container, the device possibly being itself incorporated into a radioprotective packaging. Double containment under water can thus be achieved without weighing down the conditioning system by the presence of a dry containment enclosure.
  • the inner container is a sealed metal container which has a central chimney, that is to say that it has, in section, an annular shape.
  • the chimney will be used for the drainage and the inert gas of the external container, and / or the control of the tightness.
  • a closure plate system ensures the tightness of the inner container before closing and draining the outer container. The same blanking plate system can be used for the outer container.
  • the invention further relates to a method of draining a double container, as well as a method of packaging radioactive material using this drainage. These processes make it possible to condition the equipment under water.
  • two sealed metal containers are used to ensure a double confinement of the radioactive material without weighing down the material required by the presence of a dry enclosure, each step can be performed under water.
  • the invention also relates in another aspect to an inner sealed metal container, the shape of which facilitates the current procedures, particularly with regard to the emptying, and therefore the sealing, of the outer container in which it will be by the conditioned suite.
  • the inner container consisting of a conventional container with a permanent bottom, also has a chimney that passes through the bottom and leaves a free passage when the container is sealed. This passage allows the introduction of gas and / or suction in the container surrounding it.
  • the figure 1 shows a metal container (20), formed of a cylindrical container with side walls and loading opening, closed at its lower end by an immovable bottom.
  • the metal container (20) is further traversed along its axis by a chimney (25) of circular section: the chimney therefore has walls along its length but remains open at both ends.
  • the walls of the container that is to say both the side walls and those of the chimney, support the radioactivity but are not necessarily radioprotective. It is clear that these different forms and provisions are preferred but not essential examples: for example a container of parallelepiped section, a side chimney and / or a chimney of another shape are other possibilities.
  • the containment vessel (20) Before loading the irradiated fuel assemblies (1), the containment vessel (20) is placed in the pool of the nuclear power plant. In the context of security measures and especially the methods according to the invention, most of the time, the container is previously introduced into another container, or two, as will be described later.
  • a basket (2) for the nuclear fuel assemblies (1) can be placed, preferably before immersion in the pool.
  • Another possibility is the stacking of baskets.
  • a filter plate (26) which allows to retain the impurities in the baskets without reaching the closure system.
  • a drainage device (22) provided with two self-sealing orifices and a dip tube (23) is placed in the upper part of the container, along the wall which is not that of the chimney; preferably, it is located above a space left free by the cells (5) and welded to the wall.
  • the dip tube (23) is connected, preferably by welding, to one of the two self-sealing orifices of the device (22); the second orifice (24) opens under the device and serves as a vent. It is also possible to weld the drainage device (22) with its dip tube (23) before placing the baskets (2, 3, 4).
  • a shielded plug (27) is placed above the filter plate.
  • This shielded plug however allows access to the drainage device (22) equipped with the dip tube (23) free: the drainage and the inert gas of the container will therefore be assured. Thanks to the plug (27), it is then possible to remove the metal container (20), and the container (s) surrounding it, the pool, the latter providing radiological radiological protection.
  • a primary blanking plate 28
  • Level of water is lowered into the container just below the level of the shielded plug (27).
  • the primary sealing plate (28) is then put in place, for example by welding along the walls of the chimney (25), the metal container (20) and the drainage device (22). Then, the emptying of the metal container can be carried out.
  • One of the methods used for emptying is to inject compressed air through the self-sealing orifice (24) or to suck through the drainage tube (23). Then, the metal container (20) is drained and dried by vacuum suction; there can be control of the drying by a test of pressure rise. Finally, an inert gas (N 2 or preferably He) is injected. Preferably, the upper end of the drainage device (22) is then closed by welding an orifice plate (28 ') (see FIG. figure 5 ).
  • a secondary sealing plate (29) is provided which is annular in shape, which is housed inside the walls of the metal container (20), above the primary plate (28), but which also covers the drainage device (22), to make the metal container tight, for example by welding.
  • the fuel is now confined in the metal container (20) which forms a closed volume, with the exception of the stack (25) which passes through the primary sealing plates (28) and secondary (29), as well as the bottom of the container (20).
  • the chimney (25) is used for the drainage of the container surrounding the first metal containment vessel: the chimney leaves a passage that will allow the exchange of gas and liquid through the container (30, 40) surrounding the metal container (20).
  • the sealed metal containment container (20) is usually located in a second container (30).
  • the two containers are adjusted: the space between them is preferably minimal; Furthermore, it is desirable to avoid movement between the two containers and to limit the volume of residual gas between the two containers which is detrimental in view of the heat exchange.
  • a play of a few millimeters (maximum 1 cm) between the two containers with a diameter of about 1 m is usually tolerated.
  • - 1.5 m the usual length is 3 to 4.5 m, with a chimney about 80 mm in diameter, the size of a fuel assembly).
  • the second container or outer container
  • the second container was present in the pool under, for example, 10 m of water. So water remains between the two containers, regardless of the fit between the two volumes, and the outer container must be drained.
  • the chimney is a preferred solution for draining a cylindrical container, in fact, it suffices that a passage (15) remains empty between the two containers (20, 30) when they are located one in the other.
  • the metal container of internal conditioning does not have a chimney, it is however possible, by the adaptation of the geometries of the two containers (20, 30) to have a sufficient passage while respecting the tolerance of adjustment of 1% over most of the area.
  • Figures 3a, 3b and 3c different types of geometry possible to achieve this result; these options are also part of the invention.
  • the figure 3a The chimney embodiment according to the invention is preferred because the symmetrical containers are easier to handle during automated welding procedures.
  • the figure 3c may be recommended if, for example, the shape of the fuel baskets can not be adapted to the "hole" required for the passage of the chimney. In this case, a protrusion (35) on the outer container (30) performs the same function.
  • the drainage method is then as follows: the device (10) is prepared, with placement of the inner metal container (20) in the outer container (30) and immersion in the loading pool ( figure 4a ). To facilitate and optimize the future drainage procedures, it is preferable to leave a clearance at the bottom between the two containers, for example by means of spacer pads (37). The inner metal container is filled and sealed, for example according to the procedure previously described ( figure 4b ).
  • the outer container is closed by a sealed cover (38) comprising, welded centrally in the frame of the figure, a drainage device (32) similar to the device used to drain the inner container or as shown in FIG. figure 2 the drainage device (32) is thus provided with a first self-closing orifice to which is connected a plunger tube (33), and a second self-closing orifice (34) opening under the drainage device and acting as a vent (see figure 5 ).
  • the drainage device (32) is in fact located opposite the passage (15) so that the dip tube (33) can enter the passage. It can then be drained ( figure 4c ): compressed air is injected through the orifice (34) or is sucked by the drainage tube (33) to remove the residual water. Then there is drainage and vacuum drying.
  • a check of the tightness of the outer container can preferably be carried out through the passage (15), for example by pressure rise test. Similarly, a possible control of the drying can be implemented by a pressure rise test. Finally, an inert gas (He or N 2 ) is injected.
  • He or N 2 inert gas
  • the two self-sealing orifices are closed by welding, for example, an orifice plate (38 ') above the drainage device (32) to ensure confinement.
  • an orifice plate (38 ') above the drainage device (32) to ensure confinement.
  • the internal metal container it is possible to seal with a second sealed cover (39) which will be welded to the outer casing (30) ( figure 4d ), and to control this tightness, in particular by increasing the pressure of the space between the covers (38, 39).
  • the outer container (30) may be a storage and / or transfer package (40), the side walls of which are then radioprotective.
  • This package is closed at its lower end (in the sense of the figure 4 ), removably or not following the discharge procedure in the storage site. It has a cover (38) for its other end.
  • This cover can for example be screwed, but if long-term storage is provided, welding can be performed.
  • the closure of the self-sealing openings is effected by sealing with a buffer and a tape, before final sealing.
  • the closure process is simplified compared to existing procedures.
  • the cover (38) has here a drainage device (32) by which drainage and inert gas are carried out and / or means for checking the tightness; all actions following drainage and closure are performed at the same end of the package. It is therefore not necessary to use a second system to close a lateral orifice located at the bottom of packaging.
  • the methods employing single hole transfer packs used in the state of the art require complex procedures to avoid the introduction of water between the two containers and control means to ensure that the sealing has been preserved.
  • the outer container is selected as a second metal containment container (30).
  • a metal container has an immovable bottom, and will normally be sealed “permanently”.
  • the bottom of the outer metal container may be radioprotective, but this is not a necessity. It may comprise spacing pads (37).
  • a second primary blanking plate (38) is provided for closing the second metal container (30); it has at its center a drainage device (32), provided with a dip tube (33) which enters the chimney (25) which remains free, in order to ensure that the second external metal container (30) is emptied and put under an inert gas. ).
  • the primary sealing plate (38) can be fixed by welding.
  • a second secondary sealing plate (39) in the context of this circular example, will make the second metal container tight (30), with possible control of the seal.
  • the assembly (10) of the two metal containers (20, 30) is used for storage or transport, it is also possible to package the outer metal container (30) in a radio-walled transfer package (40). protective devices according to known methods.
  • each metal container (20, 30) can be effected by any suitable technique, such as manual welding.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • High Energy & Nuclear Physics (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Monitoring And Testing Of Nuclear Reactors (AREA)
  • Container Filling Or Packaging Operations (AREA)
  • Auxiliary Devices For And Details Of Packaging Control (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)

Abstract

Transport and storage of nuclear fuel assemblies may require double confinement depending on the circumstances. A device and a method are described to perform this double conditioning without the need of a hot containment, and in which the loading and pre-positioning steps can take place in a pool. The device (10) includes a metallic inner leak tight conditioning receptacle (20) and a metallic outer leak tight receptacle (30). When the inner receptacle (20) is located in the outer receptacle (30), a passage (15, 25) remains free between the two receptacles, from the open end to the bottom of the outer receptacle. The outer receptacle (30) can be drained through this passage, particularly by a dip tube (33).

Description

DOMAINE TECHNIQUETECHNICAL AREA

La présente invention se rapporte au conditionnement d'assemblages de combustible nucléaire et plus particulièrement aux dispositifs permettant un double confinement des assemblages, ainsi qu'à la procédure de conditionnement dans les récipients avant un éventuel transport ou stockage.The present invention relates to the conditioning of nuclear fuel assemblies and more particularly to the devices allowing double confinement of the assemblies, as well as to the packaging procedure in the containers before a possible transport or storage.

ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUE ANTERIEURESTATE OF THE PRIOR ART

Les assemblages de combustible nucléaire nécessitent des procédures particulières pour leur utilisation, leur transport, et même en tant que déchets. Ainsi, après usage, les assemblages de combustible nucléaire irradiés des centrales nucléaires doivent être stockés. Les centrales nucléaires disposent certes d'une piscine dans laquelle sont conservés ces assemblages, mais ce stockage est temporaire, et les assemblages de combustible nucléaire doivent ensuite être évacués vers des sites de stockage que l'on dit « définitif ou intérimaire », sûrs comprenant notamment des enceintes métalliques étanches protégées par des modules de stockage en béton.Nuclear fuel assemblies require special procedures for their use, transportation, and even as waste. Thus, after use, irradiated nuclear fuel assemblies from nuclear power plants must be stored. Nuclear power plants have a pool in which these assemblages are stored, but this storage is temporary, and the nuclear fuel assemblies must then be evacuated to storage sites that are said to be "definitive or temporary", including in particular sealed metal enclosures protected by concrete storage modules.

Pour les transporter à destination, il est nécessaire de placer les enceintes étanches contenant les assemblages de combustible nucléaire dans des récipients radioprotecteurs « temporaires ». Les règles de sûreté qui imposent un confinement des assemblages de combustible nucléaire dans un récipient métallique étanche sont donc respectées, le récipient étant lui-même disposé dans un emballage à parois radioprotectrices, dit emballage de transfert. Le récipient métallique comprend essentiellement un corps tubulaire creux, de forme généralement cylindrique à section circulaire, muni d'une extrémité inférieure obturée et d'une extrémité supérieure totalement ouverte. Le document FR 2 805 655 donne un exemple de cette technique.To transport them to their destination, it is necessary to place the sealed enclosures containing the nuclear fuel assemblies in "temporary" radioprotective containers. The rules safety devices which require a confinement of the nuclear fuel assemblies in a sealed metal container are therefore respected, the container being itself disposed in a packaging with radioprotective walls, said transfer packaging. The metal container essentially comprises a hollow tubular body, of generally cylindrical shape with circular section, provided with a closed lower end and a fully open upper end. The document FR 2 805 655 give an example of this technique.

Pour positionner les assemblages de combustible nucléaire dans le récipient métallique et dans l'emballage de transfert, l'une des possibilités classiques est l'utilisation d'une enceinte radioprotectrice dite « sèche » ou « chaude », avec manipulations à distance des différents éléments par des bras manipulateurs : il est évident que le personnel ne peut se trouver à côté des éléments non radioprotégés. L'inconvénient de cette méthode en est la lourdeur, et par là, la durée et le coût, tant de l'enceinte que des outils et bras manipulateurs.In order to position the nuclear fuel assemblies in the metal container and in the transfer packaging, one of the conventional possibilities is the use of a "dry" or "hot" radioprotective enclosure, with remote manipulations of the various elements by manipulator arms: it is obvious that the personnel can not be near the non-radioprotected elements. The disadvantage of this method is the heaviness, and therefore the duration and cost of both the speaker and the tools and arms manipulators.

L'eau étant un bon radioprotecteur et les centrales possédant toutes une piscine, il a été proposé de conditionner le matériau radioactif directement dans les piscines. Dans ce cadre, le récipient métallique de confinement est placé dans l'emballage de transfert, l'ensemble est immergé dans la piscine, et le combustible y est chargé. L'ouverture de chargement est alors obturée par un dispositif de fermeture radioprotecteur qui assure la protection pendant les étapes suivantes qui concernent la fermeture, le confinement et le transport, qui ont lieu à sec : voir par exemple FR 2 805 655 . Cette technique est cependant plus restrictive car une partie a lieu sous immersion totale dans dix mètres d'eau ou plus. De plus, pour assurer un niveau de sûreté maximal, il est indispensable de supprimer tout résidu d'eau dans les récipients avant de les fermer, tant dans le récipient métallique de confinement que l'emballage de transfert.Water being a good radioprotector and power plants all having a pool, it has been proposed to condition the radioactive material directly in the pools. In this context, the metal containment container is placed in the transfer packaging, the assembly is immersed in the pool, and the fuel is loaded. The loading opening is then closed by a radioprotective closure device which provides the protection during the following stages concerning closure, containment and transport, which take place dry: see for example FR 2 805 655 . This technique is however more restrictive because a part takes place under total immersion in ten meters of water or more. In addition, to ensure a maximum level of safety, it is essential to remove any water residue in the containers before closing, both in the metal container and the transfer packaging.

Or, il arrive qu'un confinement supplémentaire, par la suite appelé « deuxième confinement », soit nécessaire en supplément du confinement assuré par le récipient métallique étanche : une double enceinte supplémentaire doit être mise en place. Certaines législations imposent d'ailleurs cette double enceinte. Dans ce cas, le conditionnement sous eau n'est pas opérationnel jusqu'à présent, en raison des problèmes de drainage de la deuxième enceinte de confinement notamment.However, it happens that an additional confinement, hereinafter called "second confinement", is necessary in addition to the confinement provided by the sealed metal container: an additional double enclosure must be put in place. Some legislations impose besides this double enclosure. In this case, the packaging under water is not operational so far, because of the drainage problems of the second containment in particular.

EXPOSÉ DE L'INVENTIONSTATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

L'invention se propose de résoudre les problèmes inhérents au drainage des doubles récipients.The invention proposes to solve the problems inherent in the drainage of double containers.

Sous un de ses aspects, l'invention concerne un dispositif de doubles récipients qui permet, grâce à sa géométrie, d'assurer un drainage et une mise sous gaz inerte du récipient extérieur ou de contrôler l'étanchéité. Grâce à la présence d'un passage libre entre les deux récipients, par ailleurs ajustés l'un dans l'autre, le drainage du récipient externe peut être effectué par exemple par un tube plongeur qui descend jusqu'au fond du récipient. Ceci a par ailleurs pour avantage que toutes les actions peuvent se dérouler sur la même extrémité supérieure des récipients, ce qui est préférable pour une fermeture après sortie partielle de la piscine, et ce qui allège d'autant les outillages utilisés, augmentant la sécurité des personnels.In one of its aspects, the invention relates to a device for double containers which allows, thanks to its geometry, to ensure drainage and an inert gas of the outer container or to control the seal. Thanks to the presence of a free passage between the two containers, also fitted one into the other, the drainage of the outer container can be carried out for example by a dip tube which goes down to the bottom of the container. This has Moreover for the advantage that all the actions can take place on the same upper end of the containers, which is preferable for a closure after partial exit of the pool, and which alleviates all the tools used, increasing the safety of the staff.

Les deux récipients peuvent être un récipient métallique étanche et son emballage radioprotecteur, mais il est également possible que chacun des récipients soit un récipient métallique étanche de conditionnement, le dispositif étant éventuellement lui-même intégré à un emballage radioprotecteur. Un double confinement sous eau peut ainsi être réalisé sans alourdir le système de conditionnement par la présence d'une enceinte de confinement à sec.The two containers may be a sealed metal container and its radioprotective packaging, but it is also possible that each of the containers is a sealed metal packaging container, the device possibly being itself incorporated into a radioprotective packaging. Double containment under water can thus be achieved without weighing down the conditioning system by the presence of a dry containment enclosure.

Avantageusement, le récipient interne est un récipient métallique étanche qui comporte une cheminée centrale, c'est-à-dire qu'il a, en coupe, une forme annulaire. La cheminée sera utilisée pour le drainage et la mise sous gaz inerte du récipient externe, et/ou le contrôle de l'étanchéité. Avantageusement, un système de plaque d'obturation permet de s'assurer de l'étanchéité du récipient interne avant de procéder à la fermeture et au drainage du récipient externe. Le même système de plaque d'obturation peut être utilisé pour le récipient externe.Advantageously, the inner container is a sealed metal container which has a central chimney, that is to say that it has, in section, an annular shape. The chimney will be used for the drainage and the inert gas of the external container, and / or the control of the tightness. Advantageously, a closure plate system ensures the tightness of the inner container before closing and draining the outer container. The same blanking plate system can be used for the outer container.

Une autre possibilité, par exemple lorsque la forme du récipient interne est fixée, est la présence sur le récipient externe d'une protubérance qui délimitera le passage.Another possibility, for example when the shape of the inner container is fixed, is the presence on the outer container of a protuberance which will delimit the passage.

L'invention concerne par ailleurs un procédé de drainage d'un double récipient, ainsi qu'un procédé de conditionnement de matériel radioactif utilisant ce drainage. Ces procédés permettent de conditionner le matériel sous eau. Avantageusement, deux récipients métalliques étanches sont utilisés, afin d'assurer un double confinement de la matière radioactive sans alourdir le matériel nécessaire par la présence d'une enceinte sèche, chaque étape pouvant être réalisée sous eau.The invention further relates to a method of draining a double container, as well as a method of packaging radioactive material using this drainage. These processes make it possible to condition the equipment under water. Advantageously, two sealed metal containers are used to ensure a double confinement of the radioactive material without weighing down the material required by the presence of a dry enclosure, each step can be performed under water.

L'invention se rapporte également sous un autre aspect à un récipient métallique étanche intérieur, dont la forme permet de faciliter les procédures actuelles, notamment en ce qui concerne la vidange, et donc l'étanchéification, du récipient extérieur dans lequel il sera par la suite conditionné. A cet effet, le récipient intérieur, composé d'un contenant classique à fond inamovible, possède en outre une cheminée qui traverse le fond et qui laisse un passage libre lorsque le récipient est étanchéifié. Ce passage permet l'introduction de gaz et/ou l'aspiration dans le récipient l'entourant.The invention also relates in another aspect to an inner sealed metal container, the shape of which facilitates the current procedures, particularly with regard to the emptying, and therefore the sealing, of the outer container in which it will be by the conditioned suite. For this purpose, the inner container, consisting of a conventional container with a permanent bottom, also has a chimney that passes through the bottom and leaves a free passage when the container is sealed. This passage allows the introduction of gas and / or suction in the container surrounding it.

D'autres avantages découlant de l'invention et de quelques variantes préférentielles apparaîtront à la personne du métier grâce à la description qui suit.Other advantages arising from the invention and from a few preferred variants will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

BRÈVE DESCRIPTION DES DESSINSBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

L'invention sera mieux comprise par l'intermédiaire des figures annexées, qui ne sont cependant données qu'à titre indicatif et ne sont nullement limitatives.

  • La figure 1 présente une forme de réalisation préférée d'un récipient métallique interne avec paniers et fermeture.
  • La figure 2 représente un exemple de dispositif de drainage.
  • La figure 3 montre schématiquement des géométries possibles pour le dispositif selon l'invention.
  • La figure 4 présente schématiquement une procédure de drainage selon l'invention.
  • La figure 5 montre la forme de réalisation préférée des principaux constituants d'un dispositif de doubles récipients métalliques étanches.
  • La figure 6 présente un exemple de synoptique de fermeture d'un dispositif de doubles récipients métalliques étanches.
The invention will be better understood by means of the appended figures, which are not however given that they are indicative and are in no way limiting.
  • The figure 1 presents a preferred embodiment of an inner metal container with baskets and closure.
  • The figure 2 represents an example of a drainage device.
  • The figure 3 schematically shows possible geometries for the device according to the invention.
  • The figure 4 schematically presents a drainage procedure according to the invention.
  • The figure 5 shows the preferred embodiment of the main components of a device of sealed double metal containers.
  • The figure 6 presents an example of a block diagram of a device for double sealed metal containers.

EXPOSÉ DÉTAILLÉ DE MODES DE RÉALISATION PARTICULIERSDETAILED PRESENTATION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS

La figure 1 montre un récipient métallique de confinement (20) , formé d'un récipient cylindrique avec parois latérales et ouverture de chargement, fermé à son extrémité inférieure par un fond inamovible. Le récipient métallique (20) est en outre traversé selon son axe par une cheminée (25) de section circulaire : la cheminée a donc des parois selon sa longueur mais reste ouverte à ses deux extrémités. Les parois du récipient, c'est-à-dire tant les parois latérales que celles de la cheminée, supportent la radioactivité mais ne sont pas nécessairement radioprotectrices. Il est clair que ces différentes formes et dispositions sont des exemples préférés mais non indispensables : par exemple un récipient de section parallélépipédique, une cheminée latérale et/ou une cheminée d'une autre forme sont d'autres possibilités.The figure 1 shows a metal container (20), formed of a cylindrical container with side walls and loading opening, closed at its lower end by an immovable bottom. The metal container (20) is further traversed along its axis by a chimney (25) of circular section: the chimney therefore has walls along its length but remains open at both ends. The walls of the container, that is to say both the side walls and those of the chimney, support the radioactivity but are not necessarily radioprotective. It is clear that these different forms and provisions are preferred but not essential examples: for example a container of parallelepiped section, a side chimney and / or a chimney of another shape are other possibilities.

Avant de charger les assemblages de combustible irradié (1), le récipient de confinement (20) est placé dans la piscine de la centrale nucléaire. Dans le cadre des mesures de sécurité et notamment des procédés selon l'invention, la plupart du temps, le récipient est préalablement introduit dans un autre récipient, voire deux, tel qu'il sera décrit par la suite.Before loading the irradiated fuel assemblies (1), the containment vessel (20) is placed in the pool of the nuclear power plant. In the context of security measures and especially the methods according to the invention, most of the time, the container is previously introduced into another container, or two, as will be described later.

A l'intérieur du récipient métallique, on peut placer, de préférence avant immersion dans la piscine, un panier (2) pour les assemblages de combustible nucléaire (1). Une autre possibilité est la superposition de paniers. Dans ce cadre, on peut par exemple mettre le panier inférieur (3) , remplir après immersion les alvéoles (5) du panier par le combustible, puis réitérer avec le panier supérieur (4), dont la base est filtrante. On remarque que dans le cas présent et préféré, la cheminée (25) occupe la place d'une alvéole (5) du panier.Inside the metal container, a basket (2) for the nuclear fuel assemblies (1) can be placed, preferably before immersion in the pool. Another possibility is the stacking of baskets. In this context, one can for example put the lower basket (3), fill after immersion the cells (5) of the basket by the fuel, and then reiterate with the upper basket (4), the base is filtering. Note that in this case and preferred, the chimney (25) occupies the place of a cell (5) of the basket.

Au-dessus du (des) panier(s) est ensuite de préférence placée une plaque filtre (26) qui permet de retenir les impuretés dans les paniers, sans qu'elles atteignent le système de fermeture.Above the basket (s) is then preferably placed a filter plate (26) which allows to retain the impurities in the baskets without reaching the closure system.

Après ce chargement du récipient métallique (20), effectué dans le cadre de l'invention en piscine, l'eau et tout gaz non inerte doivent être évacués pour le confinement.After this loading of the metal container (20), carried out in the context of the invention in the pool, water and any non-inert gas must be evacuated for confinement.

Pour faciliter la vidange du récipient métallique, l'une des options retenues est la présence de moyens pour drainer le récipient ; un exemple préféré de moyens de drainage est montré dans la figure 2. En l'occurrence, un dispositif de drainage (22) muni de deux orifices auto obturants et d'un tube plongeur (23) est placé en partie supérieure du récipient, le long de la paroi qui n'est pas celle de la cheminée ; de préférence, il est localisé au-dessus d'un espace laissé libre par les alvéoles (5) et soudé à la paroi. Le tube plongeur (23) est raccordé, de préférence par soudure, à l'un des deux orifices auto obturants du dispositif (22) ; le deuxième orifice (24) débouche sous le dispositif et sert d'évent. Il est également possible de souder le dispositif de drainage (22) avec son tube plongeur (23) avant mise en place des paniers (2, 3, 4).To facilitate the emptying of the metal container, one of the selected options is the presence of means for draining the container; a preferred example of drainage means is shown in the figure 2 . In this case, a drainage device (22) provided with two self-sealing orifices and a dip tube (23) is placed in the upper part of the container, along the wall which is not that of the chimney; preferably, it is located above a space left free by the cells (5) and welded to the wall. The dip tube (23) is connected, preferably by welding, to one of the two self-sealing orifices of the device (22); the second orifice (24) opens under the device and serves as a vent. It is also possible to weld the drainage device (22) with its dip tube (23) before placing the baskets (2, 3, 4).

Pour assurer la radioprotection axiale lors des opérations de drainage et fermeture, un bouchon blindé (27) est placé au-dessus de la plaque filtre. Ce bouchon blindé laisse cependant l'accès au dispositif de drainage (22) équipé du tube plongeur (23) libre : le drainage et la mise sous gaz inerte du récipient seront donc assurés. Grâce au bouchon (27), il est alors possible de sortir le récipient métallique (20), ainsi que le(s) récipient(s) l'entourant, de la piscine, ce dernier assurant la protection radiologique radiale.To provide axial radiological protection during drainage and closure operations, a shielded plug (27) is placed above the filter plate. This shielded plug however allows access to the drainage device (22) equipped with the dip tube (23) free: the drainage and the inert gas of the container will therefore be assured. Thanks to the plug (27), it is then possible to remove the metal container (20), and the container (s) surrounding it, the pool, the latter providing radiological radiological protection.

Pour maintenir le bouchon blindé (27) en place, une des possibilités préférées est l'utilisation d'une plaque d'obturation primaire (28). Le niveau d'eau est abaissé dans le récipient juste au dessous du niveau du bouchon blindé (27). On met alors en place la plaque d'obturation primaire (28), par exemple par soudage le long des parois de la cheminée (25), du récipient métallique (20) et du dispositif de drainage (22). Ensuite, la vidange du récipient métallique peut être effectuée.To maintain the shielded plug (27) in place, one of the preferred possibilities is the use of a primary blanking plate (28). Level of water is lowered into the container just below the level of the shielded plug (27). The primary sealing plate (28) is then put in place, for example by welding along the walls of the chimney (25), the metal container (20) and the drainage device (22). Then, the emptying of the metal container can be carried out.

L'une des méthodes utilisées pour la vidange consiste à injecter de l'air comprimé par l'orifice auto obturant (24) ou à aspirer par le tube de drainage (23). Ensuite, le récipient métallique (20) est drainé et séché par aspiration au vide ; il peut y avoir contrôle du séchage par un test de remontée de pression. Enfin, un gaz inerte (N2 ou de préférence He) est injecté. De préférence, l'extrémité supérieure du dispositif de drainage (22) est alors obturée par soudage d'une plaque d'orifice (28') (voir figure 5).One of the methods used for emptying is to inject compressed air through the self-sealing orifice (24) or to suck through the drainage tube (23). Then, the metal container (20) is drained and dried by vacuum suction; there can be control of the drying by a test of pressure rise. Finally, an inert gas (N 2 or preferably He) is injected. Preferably, the upper end of the drainage device (22) is then closed by welding an orifice plate (28 ') (see FIG. figure 5 ).

Une plaque d'obturation secondaire (29) est prévue de forme annulaire, qui se loge à l'intérieur des parois du récipient métallique (20), au-dessus de la plaque primaire (28), mais qui recouvre également le dispositif de drainage (22), afin de rendre le récipient métallique étanche, par exemple par soudage. Par la présence de cette plaque (29), il est également possible de procéder à une vérification de l'étanchéité de l'ensemble formé au préalable par contrôle de l'échange de gaz.A secondary sealing plate (29) is provided which is annular in shape, which is housed inside the walls of the metal container (20), above the primary plate (28), but which also covers the drainage device (22), to make the metal container tight, for example by welding. By the presence of this plate (29), it is also possible to proceed to a verification of the tightness of the assembly previously formed by controlling the gas exchange.

On note que le combustible est désormais confiné dans le récipient métallique (20) qui forme un volume fermé, à l'exception de la cheminée (25) qui traverse les plaques d'obturation primaire (28) et secondaire (29), ainsi que le fond du récipient (20). La cheminée (25) est utilisée pour le drainage du récipient entourant le premier récipient métallique de confinement : la cheminée laisse un passage qui va permettre les échanges de gaz et liquide de part en part dans le récipient (30, 40) entourant le récipient métallique (20).It is noted that the fuel is now confined in the metal container (20) which forms a closed volume, with the exception of the stack (25) which passes through the primary sealing plates (28) and secondary (29), as well as the bottom of the container (20). The chimney (25) is used for the drainage of the container surrounding the first metal containment vessel: the chimney leaves a passage that will allow the exchange of gas and liquid through the container (30, 40) surrounding the metal container (20).

En effet, tel qu'il a été indiqué précédemment, le récipient métallique étanche de confinement (20) est habituellement situé dans un deuxième récipient (30). Les deux récipients sont ajustés : l'espace qui les sépare est de préférence minimal ; par ailleurs, il est souhaitable d'éviter le mouvement entre les deux récipients et de limiter le volume de gaz résiduels entre les deux récipients qui est préjudiciable au vu des échanges thermiques. A titre d'exemple, lorsque deux récipients métalliques étanches cylindriques (20, 30) sont considérés, on tolère de façon habituelle un jeu de quelques millimètres (1 cm maximum) entre les deux récipients dont le diamètre est de l'ordre de 1 m - 1, 5 m (la longueur habituelle est de 3 à 4,5 m, avec une cheminée d'environ 80 mm de diamètre, soit la taille d'un assemblage de combustible).Indeed, as previously indicated, the sealed metal containment container (20) is usually located in a second container (30). The two containers are adjusted: the space between them is preferably minimal; Furthermore, it is desirable to avoid movement between the two containers and to limit the volume of residual gas between the two containers which is detrimental in view of the heat exchange. By way of example, when two cylindrical sealed metal containers (20, 30) are considered, a play of a few millimeters (maximum 1 cm) between the two containers with a diameter of about 1 m is usually tolerated. - 1.5 m (the usual length is 3 to 4.5 m, with a chimney about 80 mm in diameter, the size of a fuel assembly).

Cependant, dans le cadre de l'invention et afin d'effectuer toutes les opérations sous eau, le deuxième récipient, ou récipient externe, était présent dans la piscine sous par exemple 10 m d'eau. Donc de l'eau reste entre les deux récipients, quel que soit l'ajustement entre les deux volumes, et le récipient externe doit être drainé.However, in the context of the invention and in order to perform all operations under water, the second container, or outer container, was present in the pool under, for example, 10 m of water. So water remains between the two containers, regardless of the fit between the two volumes, and the outer container must be drained.

Si la cheminée est une solution préférée pour assurer les drainages pour un récipient cylindrique, en fait, il suffit qu'un passage (15) reste vide entre les deux récipients (20, 30) lorsqu'ils sont localisés l'un dans l'autre. Par exemple, si le récipient métallique de conditionnement interne ne possède pas de cheminée, il est cependant possible, par l'adaptation des géométries des deux récipients (20, 30) d'avoir un passage suffisant tout en respectant la tolérance d'ajustement de 1 % sur la plus grande partie de la superficie. On peut ainsi voir sur les figures 3a, 3b et 3c différents types de géométrie possibles pour atteindre ce résultat ; ces options font également partie de l'invention. La figure 3a reprend le mode de réalisation avec cheminée selon l'invention, qui est préféré car les récipients symétriques sont plus faciles à manipuler lors des procédures de soudage automatisé. La figure 3c peut être préconisée si par exemple la forme des paniers de combustible ne peut être adaptée au « trou » nécessaire au passage de la cheminée. Dans ce cas, une protubérance (35) sur le récipient externe (30) remplit la même fonction.If the chimney is a preferred solution for draining a cylindrical container, in fact, it suffices that a passage (15) remains empty between the two containers (20, 30) when they are located one in the other. For example, if the metal container of internal conditioning does not have a chimney, it is however possible, by the adaptation of the geometries of the two containers (20, 30) to have a sufficient passage while respecting the tolerance of adjustment of 1% over most of the area. We can see on Figures 3a, 3b and 3c different types of geometry possible to achieve this result; these options are also part of the invention. The figure 3a The chimney embodiment according to the invention is preferred because the symmetrical containers are easier to handle during automated welding procedures. The figure 3c may be recommended if, for example, the shape of the fuel baskets can not be adapted to the "hole" required for the passage of the chimney. In this case, a protrusion (35) on the outer container (30) performs the same function.

Le procédé de drainage est alors le suivant : le dispositif (10) est préparé, avec placement du récipient métallique interne (20) dans le récipient externe (30) et immersion dans la piscine de chargement (figure 4a). Pour faciliter et optimiser les procédures futures de drainage, il est préférable de laisser un jeu au fond entre les deux récipients, par exemple par l'intermédiaire de plots d'espacement (37). Le récipient métallique interne est rempli et étanchéifié, par exemple selon la procédure précédemment décrite (figure 4b).The drainage method is then as follows: the device (10) is prepared, with placement of the inner metal container (20) in the outer container (30) and immersion in the loading pool ( figure 4a ). To facilitate and optimize the future drainage procedures, it is preferable to leave a clearance at the bottom between the two containers, for example by means of spacer pads (37). The inner metal container is filled and sealed, for example according to the procedure previously described ( figure 4b ).

Le récipient externe est fermé grâce à un couvercle étanche (38) comprenant, soudé en partie centrale dans le cadre de la figure, un dispositif de drainage (32) similaire au dispositif utilisé pour drainer le récipient interne ou tel que montré dans la figure 2 : le dispositif de drainage (32) est ainsi muni d'un premier orifice auto obturant auquel est raccordé un tube plongeur (33), et d'un deuxième orifice auto obturant (34) débouchant sous le dispositif de drainage et faisant office d'évent (voir figure 5). Le dispositif de drainage (32) est en fait situé en face du passage (15) de sorte que le tube plongeur (33) peut pénétrer dans le passage. Il peut alors être drainé (figure 4c) : de l'air comprimé est injecté par l'orifice (34) ou on procède par aspiration par le tube de drainage (33) pour enlever l'eau résiduelle. Ensuite, il y a drainage et séchage par aspiration au vide. Un contrôle de l'étanchéité du récipient externe peut de préférence être effectué par l'intermédiaire du passage (15), par exemple par test de remontée de pression. De même, peut être mis en place un contrôle éventuel du séchage par un test de remontée de pression. Enfin, un gaz inerte (He ou N2) est injecté.The outer container is closed by a sealed cover (38) comprising, welded centrally in the frame of the figure, a drainage device (32) similar to the device used to drain the inner container or as shown in FIG. figure 2 the drainage device (32) is thus provided with a first self-closing orifice to which is connected a plunger tube (33), and a second self-closing orifice (34) opening under the drainage device and acting as a vent (see figure 5 ). The drainage device (32) is in fact located opposite the passage (15) so that the dip tube (33) can enter the passage. It can then be drained ( figure 4c ): compressed air is injected through the orifice (34) or is sucked by the drainage tube (33) to remove the residual water. Then there is drainage and vacuum drying. A check of the tightness of the outer container can preferably be carried out through the passage (15), for example by pressure rise test. Similarly, a possible control of the drying can be implemented by a pressure rise test. Finally, an inert gas (He or N 2 ) is injected.

Ensuite, on bouche les deux orifices auto obturants, par soudage par exemple d'une plaque d'orifice (38') au-dessus du dispositif de drainage (32) afin d'assurer le confinement. De même que pour le récipient métallique interne, il est possible d'assurer l'étanchéité à l'aide d'un deuxième couvercle étanche (39) qui sera soudé à l'enveloppe externe (30) (figure 4d), et de contrôler cette étanchéité, en particulier par remontée de pression de l'espace entre les couvercles (38, 39).Then, the two self-sealing orifices are closed by welding, for example, an orifice plate (38 ') above the drainage device (32) to ensure confinement. As for the internal metal container, it is possible to seal with a second sealed cover (39) which will be welded to the outer casing (30) ( figure 4d ), and to control this tightness, in particular by increasing the pressure of the space between the covers (38, 39).

Le récipient externe (30) peut être un emballage de stockage et/ou transfert (40), dont les parois latérales sont alors radioprotectrices. Cet emballage est fermé à son extrémité inférieure (dans le sens de la figure 4), de façon amovible ou non suivant la procédure de décharge dans le site de stockage. Il possède un couvercle (38) pour son autre extrémité. Ce couvercle peut par exemple être vissé, mais si un stockage à long terme est prévu, un soudage peut être effectué. De façon générale, dans le cas du vissage, la fermeture des orifice s auto obturants s'effect ue par obturation par un tampon puis une tape, avant de procéder à l'étanchéification définitive.The outer container (30) may be a storage and / or transfer package (40), the side walls of which are then radioprotective. This package is closed at its lower end (in the sense of the figure 4 ), removably or not following the discharge procedure in the storage site. It has a cover (38) for its other end. This cover can for example be screwed, but if long-term storage is provided, welding can be performed. In general, in the case of screwing, the closure of the self-sealing openings is effected by sealing with a buffer and a tape, before final sealing.

Grâce au dispositif et drainage selon l'invention, le procédé de fermeture est simplifié par rapport aux procédures existantes. En effet, par rapport au dispositif montré dans le document US 4 780 269 , seul le couvercle (38) possède ici un dispositif de drainage (32) par lequel sont effectués drainage et mise sous gaz inerte et/ou des moyens pour contrôler l'étanchéité ; toutes les actions consécutives au drainage et à la fermeture sont effectuées à cette même extrémité de l'emballage. Il n'est donc pas nécessaire d'avoir recours à un deuxième système pour fermer un orifice latéral situé en bas de l'emballage. Par ailleurs, les méthodes employant des emballages de transfert avec simple orifice utilisés dans l'état de la technique nécessitent des procédures complexes pour éviter l'introduction d'eau entre les deux récipients et des moyens de contrôle afin de s'assurer que l'étanchéification a été conservée.Thanks to the device and drainage according to the invention, the closure process is simplified compared to existing procedures. Indeed, compared to the device shown in the document US 4,780,269 , only the cover (38) has here a drainage device (32) by which drainage and inert gas are carried out and / or means for checking the tightness; all actions following drainage and closure are performed at the same end of the package. It is therefore not necessary to use a second system to close a lateral orifice located at the bottom of packaging. Furthermore, the methods employing single hole transfer packs used in the state of the art require complex procedures to avoid the introduction of water between the two containers and control means to ensure that the sealing has been preserved.

Un autre avantage du procédé de drainage selon l'invention est donc la possibilité d'opérer un double confinement. A cette fin, le récipient externe est choisi comme étant un deuxième récipient métallique de confinement (30). Un tel récipient métallique possède un fond inamovible, et sera normalement étanchéifié de façon « définitive ». Sur la figure 5, on voit que le fond du récipient métallique externe peut être radioprotecteur, mais ceci n'est pas une nécessité. Il peut comporter des plots d'espacement (37).Another advantage of the drainage method according to the invention is therefore the possibility of operating a double confinement. For this purpose, the outer container is selected as a second metal containment container (30). Such a metal container has an immovable bottom, and will normally be sealed "permanently". On the figure 5 it can be seen that the bottom of the outer metal container may be radioprotective, but this is not a necessity. It may comprise spacing pads (37).

La procédure de fermeture/drainage du récipient métallique externe (30) ressemble à celle décrite précédemment pour le récipient métallique interne (20). Le bouchon radioprotecteur n'est par contre ici pas utile, la radioprotection étant assurée par le bouchon (27) du récipient métallique interne (20). Une seconde plaque d'obturation primaire (38) est prévue pour fermer le deuxième récipient métallique (30) ; elle possède en son centre un dispositif de drainage (32), muni d'un tube plongeur (33) qui pénètre dans la cheminée (25) restée libre, afin d'assurer vidange et mise sous gaz inerte du deuxième récipient métallique externe (30). De la même façon, la plaque d'obturation primaire (38) peut être fixée par soudage. Enfin, après vidange et mise sous gaz inerte, une seconde plaque d'obturation secondaire (39), dans le cadre de cet exemple circulaire, rendra le deuxième récipient métallique étanche (30), avec éventuel contrôle de l'étanchéité.The closing / draining procedure of the outer metal container (30) resembles that previously described for the inner metal container (20). The radioprotective cap is however not useful here, the radiation protection being provided by the plug (27) of the inner metal container (20). A second primary blanking plate (38) is provided for closing the second metal container (30); it has at its center a drainage device (32), provided with a dip tube (33) which enters the chimney (25) which remains free, in order to ensure that the second external metal container (30) is emptied and put under an inert gas. ). In the same way, the primary sealing plate (38) can be fixed by welding. Finally, after emptying and put under an inert gas, a second secondary sealing plate (39), in the context of this circular example, will make the second metal container tight (30), with possible control of the seal.

Si l'ensemble (10) des deux récipients métalliques (20, 30) est utilisé pour un stockage ou un transport, il est possible en outre de conditionner le récipient métallique externe (30) dans un emballage de transfert (40) à parois radio protectrices selon des méthodes connues.If the assembly (10) of the two metal containers (20, 30) is used for storage or transport, it is also possible to package the outer metal container (30) in a radio-walled transfer package (40). protective devices according to known methods.

L'étanchéification de chaque récipient métallique (20, 30) peut être effectuée par toutes les techniques appropriées, comme par soudage manuel.The sealing of each metal container (20, 30) can be effected by any suitable technique, such as manual welding.

Afin d'augmenter encore la sécurité, un soudage automatique est proposé (voir figures 6a à 6f), particulièrement adapté dans le cadre du double confinement présenté.

  1. a. En figure 6a, on voit la préparation de l'ensemble de conditionnement, avec le récipient métallique interne (20) inséré dans le récipient métallique externe (30), lui-même intégré à l'emballage de transfert (40) par l'intermédiaire d'un joint, ici gonflable. Les assemblages de combustible nucléaire (1) sont placés dans le panier.
  2. b. Une fois le récipient métallique (20) rempli, un bouchon blindé (27) est placé au dessus d'une plaque filtre (26), et l'emballage de transfert plein (40) est partiellement sorti de la piscine, et positionné en zone de « préparation, soudage ». Le niveau d'eau dans l'emballage de transfert (40) est abaissé, par aspiration grâce à des outils spécialisés, juste au-dessous du niveau du bouchon blindé (27).
  3. c. Ensuite, la plaque d'obturation primaire (28) du récipient métallique interne (20) est mise en place. On effectue un soudage externe de la plaque sur la virole et sur le dispositif de drainage (22) et un soudage interne (sur la cheminée centrale (25)) ; ce soudage est effectué grâce à une machine de soudage automatique préalablement positionnée.
  4. d. Ainsi que décrit précédemment, le récipient métallique interne (20) est mis sous gaz inerte grâce à un des deux orifices auto obturants du dispositif de drainage (22), puis la plaque d'obturation secondaire (29) du récipient métallique interne est soudée, extérieurement (sur la virole) et intérieurement (sur la cheminée centrale) grâce à la machine de soudage automatique préalablement positionnée.
  5. e. La plaque d'obturation primaire (38) du récipient métallique externe (30) est elle aussi soudée, avec localisation de son dispositif de drainage (32) en face de la cheminée (25), grâce à la machine de soudage automatique préalablement positionnée, avant vidange et mise sous gaz inerte du récipient métallique externe (30).
  6. f. Enfin, la plaque d'obturation secondaire (39) du récipient métallique externe est mise en position avant soudage de fermeture de la plaque d'obturation grâce à la machine de soudage automatique préalablement positionnée.
In order to further increase safety, an automatic welding is proposed (see Figures 6a to 6f ), particularly suitable for the double containment presented.
  1. at. In figure 6a , the preparation of the packaging assembly is seen, with the internal metal container (20) inserted in the outer metal container (30), itself integrated with the transfer packaging (40) via a seal, here inflatable. The nuclear fuel assemblies (1) are placed in the basket.
  2. b. Once the metal container (20) is filled, a shielded plug (27) is placed above a filter plate (26), and the solid transfer package (40) is partially out of the pool, and positioned in the zone of "preparation, welding". The water level in the transfer packaging (40) is lowered, by suction through specialized tools, just below the level of the shielded plug (27).
  3. vs. Then, the primary sealing plate (28) of the inner metal container (20) is put in place. An external welding of the plate is carried out on the ferrule and on the drainage device (22) and an internal welding (on the central chimney (25)); this welding is done through a previously positioned automatic welding machine.
  4. d. As described above, the inner metal container (20) is put under an inert gas through one of the two self-sealing holes of the drainage device (22), then the secondary sealing plate (29) of the inner metal container is welded, externally (on the ferrule) and internally (on the central chimney) thanks to the automatic welding machine previously positioned.
  5. e. The primary closure plate (38) of the outer metal container (30) is also welded, with the location of its drainage device (32) in front of the chimney (25), thanks to the automatic welding machine previously positioned, before emptying and putting under inert gas the outer metal container (30).
  6. f. Finally, the secondary closure plate (39) of the outer metal container is placed in position before closure welding of the closure plate by means of the automatic welding machine previously positioned.

LISTE DES SIGNES DE REFERENCELIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

11
assemblage de combustible radioactifradioactive fuel assembly
22
panier pour assemblagebasket for assembly
3,43.4
paniers superposablesstackable baskets
55
alvéolesocket
1010
dispositif de conditionnementconditioning device
1515
passage du dispositifpassage of the device
2020
récipient étanche interneinternal sealed container
2222
dispositif de drainage avec orificesdrainage device with holes
2323
tube plongeur du récipient interneinner container plunger tube
2424
orifice auto obturant du dispositif de drainageself closing orifice of drainage device
2525
cheminéefireplace
2626
plaque filtre supérieureupper filter plate
2727
bouchon blindéshielded plug
2828
plaque d'obturation primaire du récipient interneprimary blanking plate of the inner container
28'28 '
plaque d'obturation du dispositif de drainage du récipient interneshutter plate of the internal container drainage device
2929
plaque d'obturation secondaire du récipient internesecondary sealing plate of the inner container
3030
récipient externeouter container
3232
dispositif de drainage pour le récipient externedrainage device for the outer container
3333
tube plongeur du récipient externeplunger tube of the outer container
3434
orifice auto obturant du dispositif de drainageself closing orifice of drainage device
3535
protubérance du récipient externeprotuberance of the outer container
3737
plot d'espacementspacing pad
3838
plaque d'obturation primaire du récipient externeprimary blanking plate of the outer container
38'38 '
plaque d'obturation du dispositif de drainage du récipient externeclosure plate of the drainage device of the outer container
3939
plaque d'obturation secondaire du récipient externesecondary closure plate of the outer container
4040
emballage de transferttransfer packaging

Claims (24)

  1. Device (10) for conditioning of nuclear fuel assemblies (1) comprising an inner leak tight metallic receptacle (20) for conditioning assemblies and an outer leak tight receptacle (30) that may contain the inner receptacle (20), the outer leak tight receptacle (30) at least including a bottom and an open end, such that when the inner receptacle (20) is located in the outer receptacle (30), a passage (15) remains free between the two receptacles, from the open end to the bottom of the outer receptacle, said passage including means (32, 33, 34) for draining the outer receptacle and/or for controlling the leak tightness of the outer receptacle (30).
  2. Device according to claim 1 wherein the inner receptacle is fitted in the outer receptacle.
  3. Device according to either claim 1 or 2 wherein the passage (15) is a duct (25) located in the inner receptacle (20) leading to the outside.
  4. Device according to claim 3, the inner receptacle (20) and the duct (25) of which are cylindrical-shaped with a circular cross section.
  5. Device according to claim 4, the duct (25) of which is located on the centerline of the inner receptacle (20).
  6. Device according to claim 2 in combination with one of claims 3 to 5 in which the bottom of the inner metallic receptacle (20) is non-removable, the duct (25) opening up in the non-removable bottom, said duct enabling drainage of an adjusted receptacle (30) including it.
  7. Device according any one of claims 1 to 6, the inner receptacle (20) of which is cylindrical-shaped and the outer receptacle (30) comprises a protuberance (35) delimiting said passage (15).
  8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6 comprising a shielded plug (27) that can be fixed in a leak tight manner to the open end of the inner receptacle (20) and such that the passage (15) passes through the plug.
  9. Device according to claim 8 comprising at least one closing plate (28, 29) that can be assembled such that the inner receptacle (20) is leak tight.
  10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9 such that the outer receptacle (30) comprises a leak tight cover (38) with means (32) for draining the outer receptacle (30) and/or controlling its leak tightness, capable of facing the passage (15) when the inner receptacle (20) is placed in the outer receptacle (30).
  11. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10 comprising means (32) for draining the outer receptacle including a dip tube (33).
  12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, the outer receptacle of which is a storage package (40) for which the sidewalls are radiation shielding.
  13. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, the outer receptacle of which is a leak tight metallic receptacle for conditioning of nuclear fuel assemblies (30).
  14. Device according to claim 13 further comprising a transfer package (40) for which the sidewalls are radiation shielding and capable of containing the outer receptacle (30).
  15. Method of conditioning nuclear fuel assemblies under water, comprising placement of the assemblies (1) into the inner leak tight metallic receptacle (20) of the device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, the device (10) itself being located in the outer receptacle (30).
  16. Method of conditioning nuclear fuel assemblies under water, including placement of the assemblies (1) into the inner leak tight metallic receptacle (20) of the device (10) according to claim 13, the device (10) itself being located in the outer leak tight metallic receptacle (30) that is itself located in the transfer package (40).
  17. Method according to claim 16 in which a seal is used to ensure leak tightness between the outer receptacle (30) and the transfer package (40).
  18. Method of draining an outer receptacle (30) for radioactive material (1) comprising insertion of an inner leak tight metallic receptacle (20) into the outer receptacle, a passage (15, 25, 35) retaining free between the two receptacles, confinement of the radioactive material in the inner leak tight receptacle (20), drainage of the outer receptacle (30) through the passage (15, 25, 35).
  19. Method according to claim 18 for which the outer receptacle is drained through the same end of the outer receptacle as the confinement of the inner receptacle.
  20. Method according to either claim 18 or 19, for which drainage is performed through a dip tube (33) descending down to the bottom of the outer receptacle.
  21. Method according to one of claims 18 to 20, for which the confinement of the inner leak tight metallic receptacle (20) is performed by welding of at least one closing plate (28, 29).
  22. Method for double confinement of radioactive material including the drainage method according to one of claims 17 to 21, then confinement of the outer receptacle.
  23. Method according to claim 22, wherein the outer receptacle is an outer leak tight metallic receptacle (30) the confinement or which is performed by welding of at least one closing plate (37, 38).
  24. Method according to claim 23 wherein the outer receptacle (30) is integrated to a transfer package (40) with radiation shielding sidewalls.
EP04805791A 2003-11-03 2004-10-28 Device and method for packing nuclear fuel assemblies having a double containment barrier Not-in-force EP1700315B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0350775A FR2861889B1 (en) 2003-11-03 2003-11-03 DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PACKAGING NUCLEAR FUEL ASSEMBLIES WITH DOUBLE BARRIER CONTAINMENT
PCT/FR2004/050548 WO2005045849A2 (en) 2003-11-03 2004-10-28 Device and method for packing nuclear fuel assemblies having a double containment barrier

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1700315A2 EP1700315A2 (en) 2006-09-13
EP1700315B1 true EP1700315B1 (en) 2009-12-09

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EP04805791A Not-in-force EP1700315B1 (en) 2003-11-03 2004-10-28 Device and method for packing nuclear fuel assemblies having a double containment barrier

Country Status (8)

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US (1) US7781752B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1700315B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5291881B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE451698T1 (en)
DE (1) DE602004024583D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2337363T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2861889B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2005045849A2 (en)

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JP4954520B2 (en) * 2005-09-21 2012-06-20 株式会社神戸製鋼所 How to store radioactive waste
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JP5172033B1 (en) * 2012-07-17 2013-03-27 山本基礎工業株式会社 Waste burial method and waste container
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE451698T1 (en) 2009-12-15
FR2861889B1 (en) 2006-02-10
WO2005045849A2 (en) 2005-05-19
FR2861889A1 (en) 2005-05-06
US20070274430A1 (en) 2007-11-29
JP2007510919A (en) 2007-04-26
WO2005045849A3 (en) 2005-09-01
JP5291881B2 (en) 2013-09-18
DE602004024583D1 (en) 2010-01-21
ES2337363T3 (en) 2010-04-23
EP1700315A2 (en) 2006-09-13
US7781752B2 (en) 2010-08-24

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