Automatic impact-test specimen handling system

In the nuclear industry, post-irradiation impact test (like the charpy test) has its own importance. In carrying out such a test an irradiated sample has to be prepared, placed in a furnace or cold bath and transferred remotely within five seconds (the time limit set by standards) on to the anvil of the impact testing machine after which the test is carried out. Remote handling of irradiated samples manually by simple means like tongs has its own limitations and sets forth many problems. An automatic system has been developed which picks up the sample from a known position and places the sample in a cold bath or furnace as the case may be. After the sample reaches the required temperature, it is transferred to the anvil of the impact test machine in less than five seconds. This paper describes the system in detail and brings forward all its salient features. (author). 2 refs., 2 figs