Fuel element handling mast for storage ponds - travels in narrow channel and has slewing outrigger reaching into ponds

摘要

A transporting appts. for fuel elements serves two adjacent ponds or pools in which the elements are stored or handled. Between the two adjacent ponds a vertically movable mast is mouned on a horizontally travelling carriage; this mast has a horizontal outrigger arm, which can be slewed into either of the ponds. The carriage is pref. stabilised against lateral forces by a rail, more specifically a U-section rail in which a wheel on the carriage runs. Used for any location where nuclear fuel elements must be handled from one pond or cell to another. Partic. for spent fuel reprocessing plants, but also for nuclear power plants. The appts. can be used as an adjunct to cranes which also serve separate ponds. In particular, the appts. can reach into cells adjacent to local regions of a pond.