Tome Architecture and management of a geological repository - Andra

5 – B waste repository zoneFigure 5.6.4Principle of loading and unloading the cask in the shaft cageThe transfer vehicle is a low-profile jack-up electrically self-propelled trolley on tyres. Electricalenergy is preferred over a diesel engine, in view of the inherent fire risks associated with this type ofmotorisation. The machine comprises a loading deck with independently motorised multi-directionalwheels giving a very tight turning circle. This type of vehicle uses widely proven technology,primarily in the nuclear context. The technology has been used at COGEMA’s La Hague site for manyyears.This design also benefits from the transposition of industrial practices in the mining industry. Its mainaim is to minimise the dimensions of the drifts and crossing structures. It is based on the principle ofseparating the transport functions over long distances that can be provided by industrial machines,from the docking function, that calls for more specific equipment to couple the cask accurately withthe cell head when unloading.5.6.3.2 Docking the cask with the cell headDocking the casks with the cell heads is carried out by a specific rail-borne vehicle (the "dockingshuttle"). This vehicle is also of the electrically self-propelled jack-up type. This design enables thecask to be docked from a narrow access drift located in front of the disposal cell.After being unloaded by the transfer vehicle, the cask is taken up by the shuttle, which travels alongthe access drift to the disposal cell and docks against the "docking port" of the radiological protectiondual-gate system at the cell head.Dossier 2005 Granite - ARCHITECTURE AND MANAGEMENT OF A GEOLOGICAL REPOSITORY145/228