Handling devices for the beam port and cold moderator inserts of SINQ

A user-dedicated neutron facility like SINQ with a potential for further development requires flexible and safe handling of the insert devices of the target shielding block: Safe in the sense of nondestructive for the components but also ensuring a minimum radiation exposure of the personnel involved in the operation, flexible in the sense to be able to respond quickly to changes in the users' demand, and to act quickly if components have suffered any damage during operation and must be repaired or replaced. The concept of the handling devices provided by PSI is expected to meet these requirements. So far, they worked successfully and reliably during the initial installation, which also was a test for the later handling of the components when activated. The knowledge and experience gathered therewith may also be of more general interest. (author) 1 fig., 3 refs