Architecture and management of a geological repository - Andra

9 – Nuclear operating resources in the repository9.3.3.3 Description of the process of installation in the cellA cycle of placing C packages is divided intothree stages.In the first stage, the transfer cask is dockedon the shielded trap door at the head of thecell (see Figure 9.3.12). The doors of thetransfer cask and shielded trap door are thenmechanically coupled. The door of thetransfer cask is the motor that drives that ofthe shielded trap door.In the second stage, the robot activates thetransfer of the disposal package to its finalposition in the cell according to a "step-bystep"advance process (seeFigure 9.3.13).Figure 9.3.12 Transfer cask docked on the cell headFigure 9.3.13Extraction of the transfer cask and putting the package in place in the cellFinally, in the last stage, the robot is brought back into the transfer cask using a return winch installedon the the transfer cask outside frame. The doors of the shielded trap door and the transfer cask arethen shut.The time taken to complete a full cycle of putting a package in place over a distance of about20 metres is estimated to be about 2 hours.In the event of robot failure or immobilization of the package during transfer, the principle envisagedconsists of setting the package down in the cell and returning the pusher robot to the cask by means ofthe robot return winch.DOSSIER 2005 ARGILE -ARCHITECTURE AND MANAGEMENT OF A GEOLOGICAL DISPOSAL SYSTEM356/495