The Sellafield nuclear power plant in the UK recently completed its first successful trial of a four-legged robot. This innovative machine is specially designed to swab for radiation in contaminated zones. This nascent technology, which automates labor-intensive, dangerous tasks for improved efficiency and safety in otherwise unsafe environments, has the potential to revolutionize industry and improve our economy. The trial expands on a successful implementation at the Joint European Torus facility in Culham, Oxfordshire. This facility will serve to further develop the technology behind fusion.
The four-legged robot is fitted with a robotic arm up front, that carries a special yellow swabbing device. This attachment replicates the swabbing motion usually done by human operators, enabling accurate and repeatable monitoring and retrieval of radiation levels. The robot’s agility gives it the unique ability to move into spaces too hazardous for humans. This capability dramatically reduces the health risks associated with radiation exposure.
Sellafield’s health physics team conducts hundreds of surface swabs each day to monitor radiation levels. The information collected from these samples will be critical in developing decommissioning plans. It allows us to maintain our safety standards at the facility. Throughout that trial, the robot provided significant insights. It provided highly accurate control and operation and demonstrated the technology’s ability to reduce time, cost and complexity during decommissioning.
“It’s important to note that this trial is about more than just the technology,” said Deon Bulman, the company’s remotely operated vehicle equipment lead.
“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
The robot’s creation marks an impressive leap forward in robotic technology for the nuclear industry as a whole. Dr. Kirsty Hewitson, director of RAICo, underscored their possible effects with this line of thinking.
“This could have an impact on both nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering sites.” – Dr. Kirsty Hewitson
This trial at Sellafield is part of innovative new tide of incorporating robots into our most important – and dangerous – safety procedures. By embracing this next generation of technology, companies can improve operational efficiencies and reduce risks found in dangerous working conditions.