Holtec has just launched an innovative dismantling technology. This is the HI-CUT system tested on materials that are harder than severely irradiated reactor material under simulated conditions.

The HI-CUT technology used at Indian Point Unit 3 exceeded expectations and “revolutionizes” the segmentation of reactors being dismantled, according to Holtec reports. Indeed, HI-CUT is a gantry device whose use is useful for the segmentation of the internal components of the upper reactor vessel in Indian. Its development is part of a two-year program.

The purpose of this program is to improve the efficiency of dismantling radiation-hardened and fragile reactors and pressure vessels in retired nuclear units with a minimum dose for personnel. According to said company, this program consists of assured control of the spread of contamination and multi-layered protection to ensure the safety of personnel.

According to the president of Holtec Decommissioning International (HDI), Kelly Trice, the company hopes to bring its dismantling technologies and innovation that can reduce the number of containers needed to package nuclear waste to other countries facing dismantling “in the coming years.”