Development of an automatic handling system for radioactive waste

This paper presents the development of Radioactive Waste Automatic Handling System (RWAHS). It is developed to minimise the human exposure to radiation during handling process. The development consists of conceptual simulation, control design, handling mechanism, storage and retrieval system and storage structure. The conceptual design was done using CATIA design and modelling to analyse the suitable mechanism. The control system uses PLC controller, limit switches and proximity sensors with Personal Computer (PC) interface. The storage and retrieval machine is adapted from an electric powered lift truck with hydraulic lifting. The machine path was designed to follow a dedicated track for better control. The storage rack and load palette were specially designed to facilitate the storage and retrieval operation. This system has been successfully installed and would be able to reduce radiation exposure to the operators significantly.