Cutting and decontamination technologies for low-cost demolition of nuclear facilities

The mechanical cutting techniques used in manufacturing result in high process forces and require very accurate control. Mechanical processes are relatively easy to run by remote control. This makes a large number of disassembly techniques available which are characterized by specific pros and cons. The thermal cutting techniques, referred to as plasma fusion cutting and contact arc metal cutting (CAMC), contract arc metal grinding (CAMG) and water abrasive jet cutting, are characterized by low restoring forces. Especially CAMC, CAMG, and WAS cutting can be used on more complex and thick-walled structures. These processes can also be employed with thicker materials and complex geometries and can be operated with relatively simple manipulator systems. In addition to cutting, abrasion processes play a decisive role in demolition. The volume of radioactive waste arising, which is a key cost factor, can be greatly reduced by abrading only the functional layers, such as protective paint coats, or the top layers of solid materials. (orig.)