Sellafield nuclear power plant has initiated a trial of an advanced four-legged robot designed to monitor radiation levels in hazardous environments. This innovative technology improves safety, agency efficiency, and effectiveness in decommissioning operations. In particular, it shines in uncontrolled environments where radiation hazards prevent human entry.
The robot, with its distinctive long arm tipped with a yellow swabbing device, has passed its first trial with flying colors. The device precisely mimics the swabbing action that a human would typically carry out. This allows it to rapidly and effectively sample surfaces that potentially contain radioactive contamination. Due to its small size, speed, and maneuverability, the robot can freely move through spaces that are too hazardous for humans and drastically reduce potential health threats.
Sellafield’s health physics team relies on thousands of swabs per day, which provide critical data for decision-making. What we learn from these swabs is critical to figuring out safe decommissioning strategies and ensuring the highest safety standards are upheld. The robot creates haptic feedback that allows for fine-grain remote control. This improves the flexibility of the monitoring process in sensitive environments.
According to Deon Bulman, the equipment lead for the robot project, cutting-edge technology like this shows promise for nuclear decommissioning.
“Together, these capabilities support faster, safer, and more cost-effective decommissioning operations while pushing forward the adoption of advanced robotics in the nuclear sector.” – Deon Bulman
This trial follows a successful test at the Joint European Torus facility in Culham, Oxfordshire, last year. That test proved the amazing robotics capabilities on display. Dr. Kirsty Hewitson, director of RAICo, said the technology had deeper implications beyond Sellafield.
“This could have an impact on both nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering sites.” – Dr Kirsty Hewitson
To address this, Sellafield is pursuing groundbreaking solutions to improve safety and efficiency in radiation monitoring. The robot’s successful trial is a huge step toward making that possible. Beyond consolidation, this joint initiative marks a tremendous commitment to utilizing advanced robotics in support of the nuclear industry. It lays the groundwork for future innovations and raises the bar on operational standards.