Sellafield nuclear power plant has begun an exciting new trial. Additionally, they’re using a four-legged robot to monitor radiation levels in dangerous areas. This innovative technology is part of Sellafield’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety and efficiency during the decommissioning process of nuclear facilities.
The trial represents another major step forward, with Sellafield having previously used robots to smear radiation in high-risk settings. The health physics team at Sellafield carries out hundreds of these surface swabs on a daily basis. They collect vital information that informs decommissioning plans and ensures adherence to safety regulations.
At the trial, the four-legged robot stole the show. To wow the audience, it artfully choreographed its big arm, which held a yellow swabbing tool, to simulate the swabbing movement typically done by human workers. The robot’s compact design lets it fit through narrow spaces and enter locations considered too dangerous for people.
Deon Bulman, head of remotely operated vehicle equipment at Sellafield, described the robot’s dexterity and finely tuned movement capabilities.
“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 successful test at the Joint European Torus facility in Culham, Oxfordshire. Through that experiment, researchers employed well over a hundred robots to investigate the latest – and greatest – fusion technology. The positive results from that facility set a hopeful scene for the ongoing re-evaluations at Sellafield.
Kirsty Hewitson, director of RAICo, told Stateline that the technology represents something much bigger than itself.
“It could have an impact on both nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering sites.” – Dr. Kirsty Hewitson
The use of this cutting-edge robotic technology marks a new experience in radiation monitoring and is a hugely positive step for the nuclear industry. Through the adoption of advanced robotics, Sellafield want to improve safety procedures and work more efficiently in sensitive environments.