Automated direct fuel transfer system for nuclear reprocessing plants

Division of Remote Handling and Robotics (DRHR) at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has been working on various remotely operated tools and automation systems for handling/working in radiation area. Recently, design and development of automated direct fuel transfer system for nuclear reprocessing plant has been taken up. This automation system is first of its kind (FOAK). It is planned to implement this automation system for forthcoming reprocessing plants in India. In order to demonstrate the system layout and its functioning, a table-top working model has been manufactured, assembled and commissioned at DRHR. This paper gives a brief description of the automation system. (author)