The MultiFlex™ nuclear segmentation system is an advanced, multi-functional cutting tool specifically designed for nuclear decommissioning and the segmentation of large reactor components.
Engineered for robustness and adaptability, the saw includes features to reduce vibration, enabling stable cutting operations. The MultiFlex™ nuclear segmentation system incorporates contamination control measures, including a simplified cable management system and minimal contamination traps, facilitating easy decontamination.
The system is equipped with two electric servo axes, allowing the operator to shift seamlessly between manual jog mode and coordinated moves for more complex and repeatable cuts. The Carriage Axis provides positioning along the main beam, while the Plunge Axis controls the saw feed. The system’s carriage mounting plate provides a common interface for multiple attachments, such as a compact saw, milling head, and torch, allowing for various cutting, milling, drilling, and thermal applications.
Applications
The MultiFlex™ nuclear segmentation system’s flexible carriage mounting plate support multiple attachments, such as a compact saw, milling head, and torch, allowing for various cutting, milling, and thermal applications.
Reactor Component Segmentation
Capable of cutting large components such as reactor pressure vessels, steam generators, and internal structures.
Material Removal and Surface Preparation
The milling head attachment enables the removal of contaminated layers or other unwanted materials.
Underwater Operations
Designed for submerged tasks, such as cutting in reactor pools.
Confined Space Cutting
The flexible mounting plate and coordinated motion make it effective for operations in tight or complex areas.
Configurations
The MultiFlex™ nuclear segmentation system can be mounted in multiple configurations, allowing the system to perform tasks that have traditionally required multiple pieces of equipment.
In-Reactor Configuration
Can be lowered directly into the lower internals or the vessel, where the integrated jack system stabilizes the saw. The operator can install the saw in the orientation that suits the cut they wish to make, either vertically, horizontal, or upside down, enabling precise segmentation in confined or complex environments.
Frame-Mounted Configuration
Can be placed into a compact static frame that is located on the pool floor. The saw can be easily re-oriented to make either vertical or horizontal cuts. This allows large segments of the vessel and lower internals to be further segmented, and the upper internals to be segmented; all with only two axes of motion.
Features & Benefits
Robust
- Main beam providing a simple, exceptionally stiff, damped, strong back.
- Only two axes of motion (traverse and plunge) build with all oversize components, preloaded to minimize vibration and accommodate harsh use.
- Operator control, with choice of manual or simple coordinated moves, eliminating the need for OEM programmer support.
Operational Flexibility
Mounted vertically, horizontally, or upside down allowing operators freedom in cutting.
Simple Control Modes
- Manual Jog Mode: This is the primary mode, allowing the operator to control path, speeds, and feeds as they wish, with the system providing feedback on torque and pressure.
- Co-ordinated Moves: Simple coordinated “recipes” are available to the operator, to perform simple arcs or point-to-point moves if desired. By avoiding complex automated sequences, these built-in recipes are robust and eliminate OEM programmer intervention.
Versatility
- The carriage mounting plate is designed to accommodate various attachments.
- Compact Saw for Segmentation: High torque hydraulic saw with compact hub diameter.
- Milling Head: Suitable for material removal and surface preparation.
- Torch Attachment: Enables thermal cutting for severing thick materials or specific metals.
- Quick Changeover: The design allows for easy switching between attachments, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
- Small Foot-Print: Short in length, suitable for small vessels, pools, and congested deck laydown area
Ease of Maintenance
Installation and complex set up are eliminated. Because the system is a compact unit, it can be craned to the deck for maintenance.
- Elimination of Contamination Traps: The design avoids traditional cable tracks and complex joints, focusing on smooth surfaces and accessible components to prevent contamination buildup.
- Washdown-Friendly Design: Allows for thorough cleaning and decontamination, ensuring that the tool can be safely reused in radioactive environments.
Enhanced Safety
The remotely controlled station ensures operators are positioned away from hazards.
Technical Specs
| Weight, Approx | 20,000 lb. |
| Main Beam | Robust and stiff strong back with built-in vibration damping. |
| Plunge Axis | 4.5 tons thrust capacity. |
| Carriage Axis | 6 tons thrust capacity. |
| Manual Moves | Full jog mode available to the operator. |
| Coordinated Moves | Pre-set moves provided for coordinated paths and profiles. |
| Cable Management System | Catenary design to minimize contamination traps. |
| Attachment Compatibility | Compact hydraulic saw, milling head, drill, and torch. |
| Remote Control Station | Provides real-time control and cameras from a safe distance. |
Contact us
Every nuclear decommissioning project is unique. Allow us to listen to your challenges and share how automation can launch your project on time.
